The IRS continues to process millions of tax refunds and stimulus-related payments as of Thursday, July 24, 2025. Americans awaiting their federal tax refunds or final stimulus check disbursements can check their payment status using official IRS tools—though some delays remain.
IRS refund status: Where things stand
For most 2024 tax returns filed before the April 15 deadline, the IRS has issued refunds within the typical 21-day window. However, some taxpayers are still experiencing delays due to:
- Incomplete or amended returns
- Claims involving the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit (CTC)
- Manual processing for identity verification
Taxpayers can check their status using the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool, which updates daily. To use it, you’ll need your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact refund amount.
As of mid-July, the IRS reports over 98 million refunds issued for 2024, with an average refund amount of $2,936.
Final stimulus check distributions
Although no new stimulus checks have been authorized in 2025, the IRS is still resolving payments related to the 2021–2023 Economic Impact Payments (EIPs). These are mostly cases involving:
- Payment corrections for eligible recipients who never received funds
- Reissued checks due to expired or closed bank accounts
- Taxpayers who filed late but qualified retroactively
If you believe you are still owed a stimulus payment, you must file a Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC) claim through your 2024 tax return or amend a prior return if needed.
How to check your stimulus check status
The IRS no longer maintains a dedicated “Get My Payment” portal. However, taxpayers can review stimulus check credits by:
- Viewing their IRS online account at irs.gov/account
- Reviewing IRS Notice 1444, 1444-B, or 1444-C, which detail past EIP payments
- Contacting the IRS by phone, though wait times remain long
Tip: If you never received a payment you qualified for, file Form 1040-X to amend your return.
Common reasons for delays
If you haven’t received your refund or expected stimulus check, possible reasons include:
- Incorrect bank info: Direct deposits sent to closed accounts may be delayed while the IRS reissues checks.
- ID verification: Some returns are flagged for fraud risk and require identity confirmation.
- Mail delivery issues: Paper checks may take several weeks to arrive.
- Offset debts: The Treasury Offset Program may apply your refund to unpaid federal or state debts.
What happens next?
The IRS recommends taxpayers avoid calling unless the “Where’s My Refund?” tool shows no status after 21 days. You may also receive a mailed notice if additional action is required.
For now, no new federal stimulus checks have been announced. However, ongoing relief programs—including the expanded Child Tax Credit and state-level rebates—continue to support low- and middle-income families.
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