Tax season officially ended on April 15, but for thousands of Americans, the wait for their refund is still dragging on.
While the IRS aims to issue most refunds within 10 to 21 days, not everyone is getting their money that fast — and there are solid reasons why.
If you’re still refreshing your bank app daily or checking the mailbox, here’s the latest on how the IRS is processing refunds and who can expect theirs this week.
Delays
So, why is your refund taking longer than expected? Well, not all tax returns are created equal. Here are some of the key factors influencing how fast the IRS processes your refund:
- Filing date: Early filers often get paid first.
- Filing method: Electronic returns are processed quicker than paper ones.
- Payment option: Direct deposit is faster than waiting for a mailed check.
- Tax credits claimed: If you filed for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit (CTC), expect a longer review process due to fraud checks.
The IRS has to do extra verification for certain credits to avoid scams — which slows down the process for legitimate taxpayers.
Schedule
Now, the big question: when will your refund arrive?
According to the IRS and recent payout trends, refunds for electronically filed returns submitted between April 14 and 20 — with direct deposit selected — are expected to land between May 5 and May 11.
If you filed by mail or opted for a paper check, things take a bit longer. For example, if your return was mailed in the last week of March and you requested a check, it may arrive as early as Monday, May 5.
Here’s a breakdown of expected timelines based on how you filed:
| Filing Method & Payment | Estimated Refund Time |
|---|---|
| E-file + Direct Deposit | 1–3 weeks |
| E-file + Paper Check | About 1 month |
| Mail + Direct Deposit | Around 3 weeks |
| Mail + Paper Check | Up to 2 months |
Tips
Still waiting? Here’s how to stay informed and possibly speed things up:
- Check “Where’s My Refund?” on the IRS website or app for real-time updates.
- Avoid calling the IRS unless it’s been 21+ days since you e-filed.
- Be patient if you claimed credits like the EITC or CTC — those refunds are legally delayed until at least mid-February, and longer if filed later in the season.
Relief
For many families, this refund is more than just extra cash — it’s a financial cushion. Whether it’s used for rent, bills, or savings, the refund can be a game-changer. That’s why knowing when it’s coming is so important.
The bottom line: If you filed your return electronically in mid-April and chose direct deposit, you’re likely next in line.
Watch your bank account between May 5 and 11, and if it doesn’t arrive, be sure to use the IRS refund tracking tool for the latest updates.
FAQs
When will May refunds arrive?
May 5–11 for e-filers between April 14–20.
Why is my refund delayed?
Credits like EITC and paper filings delay processing.
Is direct deposit faster than a check?
Yes, direct deposit is much quicker.
Can I track my refund online?
Yes, use the IRS ‘Where’s My Refund?’ tool.
How long for mailed returns?
Up to 2 months with paper check request.
