The IRS recently announced that tax refunds for 2025 will be larger than ever before. People are receiving an average of $2,065, up more than $300 from the previous year.
What’s the final touch? If you choose direct deposit, the amount increases to $2,165. The IRS distributes bills in a similar manner to concert tickets, but with less glitter.
Just don’t rush into checking your bank account just yet. The IRS warns that the numbers may change slightly as more returns are processed.
However, if you claimed credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), your refund will not arrive until mid-February. Because? A federal law prohibits it until that date. According to popular belief, patience is key to achieving success.
Why is my refund in delayed? The IRS explains
It turns out that the IRS is moving a little slower this year. They have received 23.5 million returns, but only 70,000 remain unprocessed. Although this sounds good, there are 7% fewer returns processed than in 2024.
What’s the reason? I have no idea, but it could be related to Elon Musk’s efficiency team poking its nose into the IRS. Yes, you read it correctly!
Some guys from the Department of Government Efficiency (so fancy, right? Elon’s Idea) recently visited the IRS offices. Even Senator Ron Wyden stated online, “If your refund is delayed, blame Musk’s friends.” But don’t worry, the IRS promises that everything will remain on track. Of course, if you did everything correctly, your silver should arrive by March 3rd.
Hacking the IRS system (legally, of course)
First golden rule: no paper! File your return online and select direct deposit. Thus, your refund could arrive within 10 to 21 days. If you like vintage, send it in. Be prepared to wait four to eight weeks. Beware: Minor mistakes (such as a misspelled Social Security number or fabricated deductions) can land you on the IRS’s “special waiting” list.
Another tip? Don’t claim credits that aren’t yours. It seems obvious, but every year, people invent children, pets, and even plants to make more money. Spoiler: The IRS does not recognize “dependent cactus” credits.
What if I already submitted and I don’t receive anything?
Calm down, breathe and follow these steps:
- Use the “Where is my refund?” tool. on the IRS website.
- Check that you have not made mistakes (check up to the comma).
- If you claimed credits, wait until after February 22 to check for updates.
With all the talk of Trump inspections and the visit of Musk’s boys, many are wondering: will this delay MY money? The truth is, the IRS has not confirmed anything, but the rumors fly. Of course, the agency assures that 99.7% of the returns have already been processed, so the odds are in your favor… as long as you haven’t cheated.
