Millions of taxpayers across the United States who submitted their federal income tax returns between mid-April and May are scheduled to receive their IRS refund payments this month.
According to reporting by The Sun, the average refund amount is approximately $2,945, reflecting the difference between what was paid and the actual tax liability for the previous year. These refunds are being processed as the IRS continues its efforts to clear the backlog from the recent tax season.
While the IRS refund amounts vary depending on individual circumstances, many recipients are advised to monitor official channels for updates on their payment status.
Tracking Your IRS Refund
Taxpayers eager to know when their refund will arrive can use the IRS “Where’s My Refund” online portal. The tool provides updates on the refund’s status, including when the return has been received, approved, and sent.
To access this service, users must provide their Social Security number or individual taxpayer ID, filing status, and exact refund amount.
Factors That Can Delay IRS Refunds
Refund processing times can vary based on several factors. Recent staffing cuts and budget reductions at the IRS have impacted the speed of processing. Filing a paper tax return generally results in longer wait times since IRS staff must manually review and approve the return.
Online filers usually receive quicker refunds, especially when using the IRS’ new Direct File system, which eliminates third-party intermediaries. Choosing to receive a refund by mailed check rather than direct deposit also adds to delays.
The IRS generally processes refunds within 21 days of receiving a return, but errors in banking details, incomplete forms, or additional reviews related to benefit claims can extend this period. To ensure a faster refund, taxpayers should verify that all information is accurate, submit all required documentation, request direct deposit, and file electronically.
June Refund Payment Schedule
For taxpayers expected to receive refunds this month, the IRS has outlined the following schedule based on filing date and method:
- May 1 to May 15 filers:
- Online filing with direct deposit: May 22 – June 4
- Online filing with mailed check: May 29 – June 11
- Paper filing: June 26 – July 10
- May 16 to May 31 filers:
- Online filing with direct deposit: June 6 – June 19
- Online filing with mailed check: June 13 – June 26
- Paper filing: July 11 – July 25
Extended Filing Deadlines for Certain States
Due to federally declared natural disasters, the IRS has granted automatic filing and payment extensions for 12 states. While some extensions expired on May 1, others remain active through the fall.
- All counties in North Carolina have a deadline of September 25.
- Los Angeles County, California, has until October 15.
- Counties in Arkansas, Kentucky, Tennessee, and parts of West Virginia have deadlines extended to November 3.
Taxpayers in affected areas should consult IRS resources to confirm eligibility and specific deadlines.
The IRS refund season continues as many Americans await payments that reflect their tax overpayments, with the timing largely dependent on how and when their returns were filed.
