Millions of American taxpayers are already anxiously awaiting their 2025 federal tax refunds: many have already received their payments because they filed their tax returns early in the season, but others, those who are behind, are still staring at their mailboxes every day, waiting for the mailman to arrive, hoping to see if he or she has a juicy check.
During June, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will review and distribute new payments. Delivery will be made via direct deposit or postal checks, depending on the taxpayer’s choice. Despite facing budget constraints and potential processing delays, it is estimated that most taxpayers who filed in May will receive their refunds in June.
This applies especially to those who opted for electronic filing combined with direct deposit to receive their funds.
Tax Refunds Due in June 2025: Who Gets the Money?
The IRS began processing refunds after the April deadline. The delivery schedule is determined by the date and specific method used to file the return. Electronic returns are typically processed faster than paper returns.
Taxpayers who filed electronic returns by selecting direct deposit between May 1 and 15 have an estimated receipt window. Their refunds could arrive between May 22 and June 4. This group is typically the first to receive their funds.
For those who also filed electronically during that period but chose to receive a check by mail, the deadlines are slightly later. These refunds were expected to arrive between May 29 and June 11. Physical mail adds transit time.
Taxpayers who filed paper returns during the first half of May face the longest deadlines. Their refunds could arrive as late as July 10. The manual processing inherent in paper filings requires more time for the IRS.
Those who filed in May will receive their payments soon.
Electronic returns filed with direct deposit between May 16 and May 31 have a new estimated window. These refunds should arrive between June 6 and June 19. This method remains the fastest available.
If the return was filed electronically but you opted for a check by mail during those dates, delivery is projected between June 13 and 26. The mailing factor still influences the final receipt of funds.
For paper returns filed in the second half of May, the deadlines are significantly extended. The IRS estimates these refunds could arrive between July 11 and 25. The manual workload is causing delays.
The IRS faces staffing shortages: 7,000 employees were laid off
The IRS recently laid off between 6,000 and 7,000 employees on a probationary basis. “These measures, implemented during peak tax-filing season, have raised significant concerns about potential delays in processing returns and issuing refunds,” said an offiicial to the press. The reduction affects approximately 7% of the workforce.
Traditionally, the IRS processes electronic returns and issues refunds within 21 days. However, due to staff reductions, this period is expected to extend to four to six weeks. Paper returns face potentially longer delays.
What is the average refund, and how can I track my payment progress?
The average refund amount for 2025 is approximately $2,939. This figure reflects a slight increase compared to the previous year’s average of $2,869. Individual amounts vary widely depending on multiple tax factors.
Those eligible for refunds are generally taxpayers who overpaid their 2024 tax obligations. The refund represents the difference between the total amount withheld or paid during the year and the final tax actually owed.
The IRS recommends using its online “Where’s My Refund?” tool to track your payment status. This portal provides updates on the receipt, approval, and submission of your return and associated refund. It is the official method for checking progress.