Average IRS Tax Refunds Down 32% as Filing Season Progresses

Taxpayers are seeing smaller refunds so far this year, but experts predict amounts may rise as more credits are processed.

The average tax refund for 2025 is currently $2,169, 32% lower than the $3,207 average at the same point in 2024.
Refund delays for tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) are contributing to the smaller average refund amounts.
Taxpayers who file electronically with direct deposit typically receive refunds within 21 days, while paper filings take longer, up to six to eight weeks.
The IRS advises taxpayers to use its 'Where's My Refund?' tool for status updates 24 hours after e-filing or four weeks after mailing a return.
Experts note that refunds may increase in coming weeks as more returns are processed, reflecting trends from previous years.