If you’re still waiting on your $3,000 tax refund after filing your 2024 federal return, you’re not alone. The IRS continues to process and issue refunds weekly, especially for electronic filers who opted for direct deposit.
With many taxpayers still receiving payments in late May and early June, here’s what you need to know about refund timelines, eligibility for late filing, and how to track your payment.
Late Filing Eligibility Due to Natural Disasters
In response to severe weather events—including storms, tornadoes, and flooding—the IRS has extended filing deadlines for several states. For instance, residents and businesses in Arkansas now have until November 3, 2025, to file and pay federal taxes.
If you’re among those who filed late due to natural disaster relief, your return may still be in the processing queue. Refunds from these late filings are expected to arrive by late May or early June 2025, depending on when you submitted your return.
IRS Refund Schedule: Direct Deposit Dates (May 25–31)
The IRS aims to issue most refunds within 21 days of receiving an error-free electronic return. If you filed around May 4, 2025, here are the estimated direct deposit dates:
| Filing Date | Expected Direct Deposit Date |
|---|---|
| May 4, 2025 | May 25, 2025 |
| May 4, 2025 | May 26, 2025 |
| May 4, 2025 | May 27, 2025 |
| May 4, 2025 | May 28, 2025 |
| May 4, 2025 | May 29, 2025 |
| May 4, 2025 | May 30, 2025 |
| May 4, 2025 | May 31, 2025 |
Keep in mind: your bank’s processing time may affect the actual deposit date. While the IRS may mark your refund as “sent,” funds could take up to 5 business days to appear in your account.
How to Track Your Tax Refund
You can check the status of your refund using the “Where’s My Refund?” tool at IRS.gov. Here’s what each status means:
- Return Received – Your return is being processed.
- Refund Approved – Your refund is approved and being prepared for issuance.
- Refund Sent – Your refund has been sent to your bank or by mail.
To use this tool, you’ll need your Social Security number, filing status, and exact refund amount.
Common Reasons for IRS Refund Delays
Several factors can hold up your refund, including:
| Cause of Delay | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Errors on Tax Return | Incorrect personal details, wrong bank info, or math mistakes |
| Missing Documentation | Incomplete or missing forms, such as W-2s or 1099s |
| Claiming Certain Tax Credits | Additional checks required for EITC or CTC |
| Filing by Paper | Mailed returns take significantly longer than electronic filing |
The IRS recommends submitting a complete and accurate return to avoid delays. Also, choosing direct deposit speeds up the refund process considerably.
Fastest Way to Get Your Tax Refund
Want your refund faster? Stick to these three proven steps:
- E-File Your Tax Return – Avoid paper forms whenever possible.
- Select Direct Deposit – It’s faster and more secure than receiving a check.
- Double-Check for Errors – Accuracy speeds up approval and reduces delays.
If everything checks out, some refunds can be issued in as few as 8 days after filing.
The IRS refund schedule for 2025 is well underway, with payments continuing into early June. If you’re expecting a refund but haven’t received it yet, be sure to track it online, confirm your bank details, and verify that your return was error-free. Following the IRS’s recommended filing process is the best way to ensure you get your refund quickly and without complications.
