Sunset Finance Blog

When Will You Receive Your Tax Refund?

Written by Sunset Finance | April 11, 2024

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:

Return Filed

Direct Deposit Refund Date

Mailed Check Refund Date

January 29

February 16

February 23

February 5

February 23

March 1

February 12

March 1

March 8

February 19

March 8

March 15

February 26

March 15

March 22

March 4

March 22

March 29

March 11

March 29

April 5

March 18

April 5

April 12

March 25

April 12

April 19

April 1

April 19

April 26

April 8

April 26

May 3

April 15

May 3

May 10

April 22

May 10

May 17

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. Utilize the IRS Free File Program or commercial tax software for more complex tax situations.

By taking proactive steps to expedite your refund, you can ensure timely access to your funds and alleviate financial strain. 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.

Consider A Tax Advance Loan

When a delay in your tax refund is unavoidable, consider working with a professional tax preparer and applying for a tax advance loan.

Once your tax preparer has filled out your paperwork and sees how much of a return you should receive, they may offer you a tax advance loan. This means they will make you a loan based on your anticipated return. This allows you to get money within 24-48 hours rather than waiting for the IRS. When the actual refund from the IRS comes through, your tax preparer usually takes their fees plus the loan amount out of the return automatically. This allows people to get professional help with their taxes without having to pay upfront for the service.

Having access to your tax refund through a loan can be really beneficial if you need the money quickly -especially if you're filing an EITC.

Taxes can be overwhelming. That's why we've created the Sunset Finance Guide to Tax Returns to provide you with more information.

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 $6,000* within 24 to 48 hours of IRS acceptance!

More Free Tax Prep Resources

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