Millions of taxpayers across the United States are eagerly awaiting their IRS tax refunds, and for a significant group, that wait is almost over. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has confirmed that the next wave of refunds will be processed and delivered by Friday, April 15 — either by direct deposit or mailed check.
If you’ve already filed your 2024 tax return, you may be among the many scheduled to receive your refund by this Friday. But not everyone qualifies for this round. In this article, we’ll explain who will receive their refunds, why this date matters, how to check your refund status, and what to do if your payment is delayed.
Who Will Receive Their IRS Tax Refund by April 15?
The IRS issues refunds in batches, and several factors determine when your refund will arrive. According to the agency, those who filed electronically, opted for direct deposit, and had no errors or issues with their tax return are likely to receive their payments by April 15.
You’re likely in this group if:
- You filed your return before April 1
- You claimed no credits that require extra review, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)
- You chose direct deposit instead of a paper check
- You had no identity verification or processing delays
Additionally, taxpayers who used certain online tax preparation services that work directly with the IRS’ e-file system are more likely to experience faster processing and direct deposits.
IRS Refund Timeline: Who Gets Paid When
Here’s a brief look at the general timeline of IRS refund payments based on filing type and date:
Filing Date | Refund Payment Method | Estimated Payment Date |
---|---|---|
March 25 – April 1 | Direct Deposit | By April 15 |
Before March 15 | Paper Check | By April 15 – April 20 |
April 2 – April 8 | Direct Deposit | April 22 – April 26 |
This table gives a rough guide based on current IRS processing times, which can vary depending on demand, tax complexity, and potential flags or audits.
How Much Will You Receive in Your Refund?
The amount of your refund depends on several factors, including your income, deductions, tax credits, and whether you overpaid throughout the year. In 2024, the average federal tax refund so far has been approximately $2,900, though individual amounts vary.
Some common credits and deductions that may increase your refund include:
- Child Tax Credit
- Earned Income Tax Credit
- American Opportunity Tax Credit (education expenses)
- Recovery Rebate Credit
- Excess Social Security Withholding
If you’re unsure how much to expect, check your tax filing confirmation or log into your IRS account online.
How to Track Your Refund Status
If you’re still waiting on your refund or unsure whether you’re part of the April 15 batch, the IRS offers a couple of tools to track your payment:
- Where’s My Refund?
Visit irs.gov/refunds and enter your Social Security number, filing status, and the refund amount to get a status update. - IRS2Go Mobile App
Download the official IRS mobile app to check your refund status and receive real-time updates.
Most states results will show:
- Received: The IRS has accepted your return and is processing it
- Approved: Your refund has been approved and is being prepared
- Sent: Your refund has been sent (via direct deposit or mailed check)
What to Do If Your Refund Is Delayed
While many will receive their refunds by April 15, some may face delays. Here’s what to do if yours hasn’t arrived by the expected date:
- Wait three additional business days before calling the IRS. Processing may take longer due to high volume or bank delays.
- Check for errors in your tax return, such as incorrect banking info or mismatched SSNs, which can trigger a manual review.
- Monitor your mail if you’re receiving a paper check. The USPS delivery time can vary depending on location.
If your refund still hasn’t arrived after 21 days from the filing date, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 or use your IRS online account to submit an inquiry.
Final Thoughts
As tax season nears its peak, the IRS is working diligently to process millions of returns and issue refunds as quickly as possible. If you filed your tax return early, selected direct deposit, and had no major issues with your submission, there’s a good chance your refund will be in your account by Friday, April 15.
Remember to monitor your refund status online, keep your bank and mailing info up to date, and contact the IRS only if necessary. For those still waiting, future payment batches will continue on a rolling basis throughout April and May.
With tax deadlines approaching and refund expectations high, staying informed is the key to peace of mind this season.
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IRS Tax Refunds: These Taxpayers Will Receive Their Payments by Friday, April 15 – Are You One of Them?
IRS Tax Refunds: These Taxpayers Will Receive Their Payments by Friday, April 15 – Are You One of Them?
IRS Tax Refunds: These Taxpayers Will Receive Their Payments by Friday, April 15 – Are You One of Them?