Tax Season is Here

Tax season is in full swing, and millions of Americans are filing their 2024 returns with hopes of receiving a timely refund. The IRS expects around 140 million individuals to file by the April 15 deadline. While tax season can be stressful, understanding the process and knowing what to expect can help taxpayers avoid unnecessary delays and complications.

For many, a tax refund represents an opportunity to catch up on bills, invest in savings, or make much-needed purchases. But before that refund hits your account, it’s important to know the timelines, potential delays, and what to do if something goes wrong.

IRS Refund Schedule for 2025

The IRS officially began accepting tax returns on January 27, 2025. If you filed electronically and chose direct deposit, you could see your refund as soon as 10 to 21 days after the IRS processes your return. However, if you filed a paper return, expect a much longer wait—anywhere from four to eight weeks.

For those claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), the refund process may take longer. The IRS conducts additional verification to prevent fraud, and refunds for these filers are typically not issued before the end of February.

Peak filing season—late March to mid-April—can also contribute to refund delays due to the high volume of returns being processed. If you need your refund quickly, filing early and opting for direct deposit is the best course of action.

Checking Your Refund Status

The IRS provides a convenient online tool called “Where’s My Refund?” that allows taxpayers to track the status of their refund. This tool updates once daily and requires three pieces of information to access:

  • Your Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
  • Your filing status
  • The refund amount from your tax return

For those in Minnesota, the state also offers a “Where’s My Refund?” system through the Department of Revenue. Taxpayers can check the status of their Minnesota income tax or property tax refund online or by calling 651-296-4444 or 1-800-657-3676.

When Something Goes Wrong

Not all refunds arrive as expected. If your refund amount is lower than anticipated, there may have been corrections made to your return. The IRS will notify you if adjustments were made due to errors or discrepancies.

Additionally, some refunds are offset to cover debts such as unpaid federal or state taxes, child support, or student loans. If you filed a joint return, your refund could be used to pay a spouse’s outstanding debts.

If you were expecting direct deposit but received a paper check instead, it could be due to incorrect banking information, an account name mismatch, or a financial institution rejecting the deposit. Taxpayers who accidentally entered the wrong account number should contact the IRS at 800-829-1040. However, if the refund has already been deposited into another account, resolving the issue will require contacting the bank directly.

Getting Your Refund in Minnesota

Minnesota taxpayers have the option to receive their state tax refund via direct deposit or paper check. Direct deposit is the fastest and most secure method, but if an account is closed before the deposit is made, the state will issue a paper check instead.

For those who receive a refund check but need to update their address, contacting the Department of Revenue as soon as possible can prevent delays. Income tax refund checks are valid for two years, and if a check expires, taxpayers can request a reissue by mailing the old check along with a written request to:

Minnesota Department of Revenue
Mail Station 4110
600 N. Robert St.
St. Paul, Minnesota 55146-4110

Property tax refund checks, however, are only eligible for reissue under special circumstances. If a taxpayer can prove reasonable cause for not cashing the check, they may request a reissue within five years of the original check date.

Making Tax Season Work for You

Tax season doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By staying informed about filing deadlines, refund timelines, and potential issues, taxpayers can avoid common pitfalls and ensure a smooth process. Whether you’re filing early to avoid delays or double-checking your bank details before submitting, taking small steps can make a big difference.

For those still waiting on a refund, patience and preparation are key. While the IRS and state agencies work through millions of returns, having the right information at your fingertips can help you navigate tax season with confidence.