Most filers who submit their returns digitally receive their refunds within 21 days, but paper filers will have to wait for at least four weeks for information on the status of their return, the IRS noted. You can track your refund using the Where’s My Refund tool within 24 hours of e-filing.

What you need to know about the new IRS Direct File program, how to track a refund and more during the 2025 tax season.

"Tax return" and "tax refund" do sound similar, and you may've even heard someone say they've received their tax return from the IRS when really they're referring to their tax ref

The IRS said it will begin accepting tax returns on Jan. 27, although it also opened its Free File service on Jan. 10. The IRS Free File program, which is offered through tax software companies, is available to taxpayers with adjusted gross income of $84,000 or less in 2024.

Taxpayers with an AGI above $84,000 can use the Free File Fillable Forms starting Jan. 27. That service is available to all taxpayers, regardless of income, place of residence or age. Click on Explore Free Guided Tax Software button. Then select the Find a Trusted Partner tool for help in finding the right product, or

As the tax season approaches, it's crucial for businesses to submit wage statements and information returns to the IRS by January 31.

As tax season kicks off, the IRS has set new deadlines for filing tax returns to ensure taxpayers receive their due refunds. These deadlines, part of the Refund Statute Expiration Date (RSED), aim to uphold transparency and compliance with tax regulations.