Tax Refunds 2025: Here’s Why You Might Be Getting More Money Back This Year

As the 2025 tax deadline hits, millions of Americans are watching their bank accounts and asking the same question: Where’s my refund?

If you’ve already filed, here’s what you need to know about refund timelines, what the average person is getting back, and why some checks are bigger this year.

How Long Does It Take to Get Your Refund?

If you filed your taxes electronically and chose direct deposit, the IRS says you should get your refund within 10 to 21 days after your return is accepted. That’s the fastest route.

Paper filers, however, may be waiting much longer. Mailing a return can add several weeks to the processing time—especially if there are errors or missing information.

The IRS recommends using the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on their website to track the status of your return. It updates daily and requires just three pieces of info: your Social Security number, filing status, and refund amount.

What’s the Average Refund in 2025?

As of late February, the IRS reported that the average refund issued this year is $3,453. That’s a noticeable 7.5% increase from last year’s average of $3,213.

And if you chose direct deposit, you’re doing even better. Those refunds averaged around $3,505, which is up 7.1% from the previous year.

Not bad for hitting “submit” early.

Why Are Refunds Higher This Year?

There are a few key reasons why many Americans are seeing fatter refunds in 2025:

• Bigger Standard Deduction: The IRS increased the standard deduction to $14,600 for single filers and $29,200 for married couples filing jointly. That’s up from $13,850 and $27,700 in 2024.

• Tax Credits: Many families and lower-income workers qualified for larger tax credits this year, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit. These can significantly boost your refund—even if you owe little or no tax.

• Inflation Adjustments: Several tax brackets and deductions were adjusted for inflation, which may have reduced how much tax was owed overall.

Filing Tips to Get Your Refund Faster

Still waiting on your money? Here’s how to avoid unnecessary delays:

• File electronically and choose direct deposit.

• Double-check all your information before submitting.

• Track your refund on the IRS website using their official tool.

• Avoid paper returns unless absolutely necessary.

Tax Day might feel like a hassle, but for many Americans in 2025, it’s also payday. With refund amounts on the rise, it’s a good time to double-check your return and make sure you’re getting everything you’re owed.