When Will You Receive Your Tax Refund?

As the tax season unfolds and the April 15th deadline looms closer, taxpayers are eager to anticipate their refunds. Filing your taxes early and electronically remains one of the surefire ways to expedite the process, with the IRS typically issuing refunds within 21 days of filing. However, for those of you who haven’t filed yet or have opted for a paper tax return, it's crucial to brace for potentially longer processing times, sometimes several months or more.

To help you navigate the refund process more efficiently, we have created this blog post to shed light on the IRS refund schedule and offer valuable insights on expediting your tax return.

Understanding the IRS Refund Schedule

While the IRS no longer provides an annual tax refund schedule, estimates based on previous years can give you an idea of when you might expect your refund. Refer to the table below for an estimated IRS refund schedule for this year’s tax returns:

The IRS started accepting returns on Jan. 27, 2025.

** = Returns with EITC or CTC may have refunds delayed until March to verify credits.

*** = Filing during peak season (late March through April 15) can result in slightly longer waits.

Why Is There a Delay on EITC and CTC Refunds?

If your tax return includes the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), you may face a delay in receiving your refund due to the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act. The PATH Act requires the IRS to hold refunds for these credits until early March. This regulation was implemented to combat tax fraud by giving the IRS additional time to verify claims for these credits.

In 2025, the IRS will not fund refunds for returns claiming the EITC or ACTC until March 3rd at the earliest. This delay is necessary to ensure accurate processing and prevent fraudulent filings. While these measures help secure tax refunds, they can cause financial challenges for families who rely on their refunds to cover essential expenses such as bills, debt repayment, or emergencies.

How To Track Your Tax Refund

Tracking your tax refund is straightforward and offers peace of mind and clarity on the status of your return. Whether you filed electronically or by mail, the IRS provides convenient tools to monitor your refund's progress.

• Where's My Refund Online Tool: The IRS Where's My Refund online tool is a user-friendly platform accessible from any internet-enabled device. Simply input your Social Security number, filing status, and expected refund amount to initiate the tracking process. The tool begins monitoring your refund within 24 hours of e-filing and updates daily to provide real-time status updates. For those who filed by mail, it's important to note that processing times may be longer, resulting in delays in refund issuance.
• IRS2Go Mobile App: For added convenience, the IRS2Go mobile app offers on-the-go access to your refund status. Available for download on both iOS and Android devices, the app provides the same functionality as the online tool, allowing you to track your refund with ease.
• Phone Inquiry: If online tools are inaccessible, you can always contact the IRS directly by phone at 800-829-1040. A representative will assist you in retrieving the status of your refund and addressing any concerns or inquiries you may have.

By utilizing these tracking methods, you can stay informed about the progress of your tax refund and anticipate its arrival with confidence.

Speeding Up Your Tax Refund

To expedite your tax refund, consider the following tips:

• Request Direct Deposit: Direct deposit remains the fastest method to receive your refund, with 8 out of 10 taxpayers opting for this option. Sunset Finance offers tax advance loans, providing access to your refund within 24 to 48 hours of IRS acceptance, ensuring swifter access to your funds.
• File Electronically: Electronically filing your tax return not only speeds up processing but also helps catch errors that could cause delays. Use our free Taxes-To-Go App to securely upload your documents from anywhere.
• Apply for a Tax Advance Loan: At Sunset Finance, we understand the importance of timely refunds and offer tax preparation services tailored to your needs. That is why we offer Tax Advance Loans.

How Sunset Finance Can Help with a Tax Advance Loan

You don’t have to wait to get access to your tax refund money. Sunset Finance offers Tax Advance Loans that provide early access to up to $7,000* of your expected refund—without the wait.

Here’s how a tax advance loan can help:

1. Access Your Refund Early

With a Tax Advance Loan, you can access part of your tax refund within 24 to 48 hours of IRS acceptance. You won’t have to wait to cover pressing expenses, such as bills, medical costs, or car repairs.

2. Manage Holiday or Post-Holiday Expenses

For many, the financial stress of the holidays carries over into the new year. With quick access to your refund, you can catch up on expenses, pay off credit card debt, or save for upcoming needs without scrambling to make ends meet.

3. Avoid Credit Card Debt

Without early access to a refund, many people resort to credit cards to cover urgent expenses. A tax advance loan offers a smarter alternative and is better for your wallet.

4. Stay Ahead of Financial Deadlines

From rent and mortgage payments to utility bills, financial obligations don’t stop just because the IRS is holding your refund. A tax advance loan can help you stay on top of these commitments and avoid late fees or penalties.

How Does a Tax Advance Loan Work?

Getting a Tax Advance Loan with Sunset Finance is simple. Here's what you need to do:

Step 1: Prepare Your Taxes Early

Start by organizing your tax documents, including your W-2s, 1099s, and any other necessary paperwork. Use our free Taxes-To-Go App to securely upload your documents from anywhere.

Step 2: File Your Return

Once your documents are submitted through the app or at your local branch, our tax professionals will review and file your return. We’ll ensure your tax filing is accurate and complete.

Step 3: Apply for a Tax Advance Loan

After the IRS accepts your return, you can apply for a tax advance loan. Qualified customers can receive up to $7,000* in as little as 24 to 48 hours. The loan amount will be deducted from your refund when it arrives, with clear and transparent terms.\

Get Tax Help at Your Local Sunset Finance Location

At Sunset Finance, we offer efficient tax preparation services. Let us give you a free no-obligation quote when you schedule an appointment. We offer tax advances up to $7,000* within 24 to 48 hours of IRS acceptance!

More Free Tax Prep Resources

• Download our "Easy Tax Prep Checklist" to streamline your tax document-gathering process.
• Learn what you need to know about filing this year's taxes in this blog. Including current tax brackets and filing dates.
• Taxes can be overwhelming. That's why we've created the Sunset Finance Guide to Tax Returns to provide you with more information.
• Learn more about Tax advance loans from our resource called "What is a tax Advance Loan?".

*Subject to our most liberal credit policies and IRS acceptance of your return.
Georgia NMLS #2045071.