The IRS just broke some big news: tax refunds for 2025 are juicier than ever. On average, people are receiving $2,065, which is an increase of more than $300 compared to last year. The cherry on the cake? If you choose direct deposit, the figure rises to $2,165. Basically, the IRS is handing out bills like they were stickers at a concert… but with less glitter.
Just don’t rush to check your bank account just yet. The IRS warns that these numbers could change slightly as they process more returns. In addition, there is an important but: if you claimed credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), your refund will not arrive before mid-February. Because? A federal law blocks it until that date. Patience, everything comes… or so they say.
Why is my refund in delayed? The IRS explains
It turns out the IRS is moving a little slower this year. They have received 23.5 million returns, but only 70,000 are unprocessed. Although it sounds good, there are 7% fewer returns processed than in 2024. The reason? No idea, but maybe it has to do with Elon Musk’s efficiency team poking its nose into the IRS. Yes, you read that right!
Some guys from the Department of Government Efficiency (super fancy, huh? Elon’s Idea) visited the IRS offices recently. Even Senator Ron Wyden said online: “If your refund is delayed, blame Musk’s friends.” But don’t worry, the IRS promises that everything stays on track. Of course, if you presented everything correctly, your silver should drop before March 3rd.
Hacking the IRS system (legally, of course)
First golden rule: no paper! File your return online and choose direct deposit. Thus, your refund could arrive in 10 to 21 days. If you like vintage and mail it in… well, be prepared to wait 4 to 8 weeks. And beware: Minor errors (like a misspelled Social Security number or fabricated deductions) can cause the IRS to put you on the “special waiting” list.
Another tip? Do not claim credits that do not belong to you. It sounds obvious, but every year there are people who invent children, pets or even plants to make more money. Spoiler: The IRS doesn’t believe in “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.
