Where’s my refund? IRS says to skip paper returns and go digital now

As tax season gets into full swing, the Internal Revenue Service is encouraging taxpayers to use online tools rather than waiting on hold during the traditionally busy Presidents Day period, according to an IRS announcement that aims to help taxpayers navigate the filing process more efficiently.

The IRS data shows that approximately 93% of taxpayers now file their federal income tax returns electronically, with most choosing direct deposit for faster refunds. 

As noted in IRS documentation, paper refund checks are 16 times more likely to face issues such as being lost, misdirected, stolen, or uncashed, which explains the push toward electronic filing.

Statistical data from the IRS reveals that by January 31, 2025, the IRS had already processed more than 13 million returns and issued over 3 million refunds, demonstrating the high volume of early filers. 

Time's analysis of IRS records indicates that during the 2024 tax season, covering tax year 2023, the average refund was $3,138, with nearly 105 million refunds processed by December, totaling over $329 billion.

For those earning $84,000 or less in 2024, the IRS has expanded its free filing options, including IRS Free File Guided Tax Software and Free File Fillable Forms. 

The tax authority has also launched Direct File in 25 participating states, offering a free web-based service in both English and Spanish that works across various devices.

According to information shared by Time magazine and confirmed by IRS guidelines, taxpayers can typically expect their refunds within 21 days when filing electronically, though mail-in returns may take four weeks or longer to process.

The IRS has implemented several tools to help taxpayers track their returns and manage their tax affairs online. 

Based on details from the tax agency's communications, taxpayers can use the "Where's My Refund?" tool or call dedicated hotlines (800-829-1954 for regular returns, 866-464-2050 for amended returns) to check their refund status. 

Taxpayers will see one of three status updates: "received return," "refund approved," or "refund sent," with funds typically appearing in bank accounts within five days of the "refund sent" notification.