The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and multiple state revenue departments continue processing 2024 tax refunds through late July 2025. So, if you’re still waiting on your money, let’s take a look atthe ongoing federal/state refund distributions, recipient profiles, and average payment amounts using official IRS and state agency data.
As of mid-July 2025, the IRS keeps issuing tax refunds, especially for taxpayers filing paper returns near deadlines. Those submitting paper forms between May 16-31, 2025 should expect refunds between July 11-25 per IRS guidelines.
Federal tax refunds still processing
This official IRS data confirms late filers still receive payments during July’s second half. Electronic filers from early July also see refunds now, given the typical 21-day e-file processing window.
Refunds go to taxpayers who overpaid annual taxes or qualified for specific credits. This includes individuals, families, and small businesses with credit balances after filing. Top credit types generating refunds are the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC).
Delays still happen though. Documentation errors, identity verification hiccups, or IRS operational limits create holdups. One major factor: “budget cuts and staffing shortages” continue straining processing capacity, according to IRS sources.
The average IRS tax refund as of July 2025
The average federal refund hit $2,939 for fiscal 2025 based on IRS records. That’s moderately higher than 2024’s $2,869 average. Several elements pushed this increase. Adjusted withholdings played a role. Tax law tweaks contributed too. More taxpayers claiming credits also boosted averages. Below shows core annual comparisons:
Two states still delivering tax refunds
North Carolina’s revenue department (NCDOR) faces paper check delays after its printing vendor abruptly closed (June 16 announcement). Electronic filers choosing direct deposit remain unaffected. NCDOR’s refund tracker shows limited data during this disruption. Paper checks should still reach taxpayers in July, just slower than usual.
Georgia’s revenue department started surplus refunds under House Bill 112 in June 2025 (June 2 notice). These apply to taxpayers who filed 2023-2024 returns before May 1, 2025 – or October 15 with extensions. Amounts depend on 2023 federal AGI: $250 for single filers, $500 for joint filers. Though distributions began in June, some payments will land in July due to ongoing processing.
Furthermore, no other states announced special July refund programs. Standard processing continues in California, New Jersey, and South Carolina. California typically processes personal refunds within one month, business refunds in up to six months. New Jersey refunds involving EITC often face longer reviews. Taxpayers should directly check their state’s revenue portal for real-time updates.
Didn’t get a check from the IRS? Here’s what to to next
If you haven’t received your IRS tax refund check within the expected timeframe (21 days for e-filers, 6+ weeks for paper filers), first check the status using the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on IRS.gov or the IRS2Go app. If it shows “issued” but you haven’t gotten it, wait 5 extra mailing days before taking action.
For missing checks, call the IRS refund hotline at 800-829-1954 (individuals) or 800-829-4933 (businesses). Have your Social Security number, filing status, and exact refund amount ready. If the check was lost/stolen, you may need to submit Form 3911 (Taxpayer Statement Regarding Refund) to request a trace.
Direct deposit filers should verify bank details—if rejected, the IRS mails a check to your address on file. For unresolved cases, contact the Taxpayer Advocate Service at 877-777-4778.
