If you’re still waiting for your tax refund, you’re not alone. As of early May 2025, millions of taxpayers are seeing slower-than-expected processing times. Here’s what you need to know about IRS refund delays this month—and what you can do if yours is stuck.
Why Are IRS Refunds Taking Longer in 2025?
Several factors are contributing to refund delays this year:
- Processing Backlogs: The IRS entered 2025 with leftover returns still under review from last year.
- Manual Reviews: More returns flagged for errors, identity verification, or eligibility for new credits like the expanded Child Tax Credit are slowing processing.
- System Upgrades: The IRS is updating its aging computer systems to handle new tax laws, causing temporary disruptions.
Therefore, even if you filed early and electronically, your refund may take longer than usual to arrive.
How Long Are Refunds Taking Right Now?
The IRS still officially advises that most refunds are issued within 21 days after filing electronically with direct deposit. However, for many filers in May 2025:
- Routine refunds are taking 3 to 5 weeks.
- Returns flagged for extra review may take up to 90 days.
You can check your refund status using the Where’s My Refund? tool at IRS.gov. Make sure you have your Social Security number, filing status, and refund amount ready.
Common Reasons for Delays
Here are the most common issues causing refund slowdowns:
- Mistakes on the return (wrong banking info, typos, missing signatures)
- Claims for Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)
- Identity theft verification holds
- Incomplete paperwork or missing forms
Meanwhile, paper returns are moving the slowest — some taking up to 12 weeks to process.
What You Should Do If Your Refund Is Delayed
If your refund has been stuck for more than 21 days (electronic) or 6 weeks (paper), here are your next steps:
- Use Where’s My Refund? for updates.
- Call the IRS at 800-829-1040 if the online tool shows no progress after several weeks or go here.
- Avoid filing a second return — it will only create more confusion.
In addition, make sure your bank account information is correct to avoid direct deposit issues.
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