If you're claiming a Child Tax Credit or Earned Income Tax Credit on your 2024 tax returns, you may get your refund later in the season than other filers — even if you filed first. Here's why.

The IRS began processing tax returns Monday. For filers who submit their returns electronically using direct deposit, refunds are generally issued in less than 21 days. There is a caution from the tax agency, however, that urges “taxpayers not to rely on receiving refund by a certain date, especially when making major purchases or paying bills.

Some dread doing taxes and wait until the last minute. But millions of others file early to get their tax refunds. What to expect in tax season 2025.

Tax season is underway, and the IRS expects 140 million people will file returns by April 15. If you file your tax return electronically, the IRS says it should take 21 days or fewer to receive your refund.

Some dread doing taxes and wait until the last minute. But millions of others file early to get their tax refunds. What to expect in tax season 2025.

If you're planning to use your 2025 tax refund to buy paper Series I savings bonds, you'll need a new strategy. As of 2025, the U.S. Department of the Treasury has eliminated the option to buy paper I bonds through your tax refund.