How fast are federal refunds

Most taxpayers receive their refunds within 21 days. If you choose to have your refund deposited directly into your account, you may have to wait five days before you can gain access to it. If you request a refund check, you might have to wait a few weeks for it to arrive. Note that these are just guidelines.

Based on how you file, most filers can generally expect to receive a refund within these time frames. For a more detailed estimate of when you could get your tax refund, this table breaks down when direct deposits are sent an average of two weeks after your taxes were accepted by the IRS for direct deposits and three weeks for paper checks in the mail.

Filing method and refund delivery method How long it takes to receive your refund from the time your return is accepted E-file and direct deposit weeks E-file and check 1 month Mail in return and direct deposit 3 weeks Mail in return and check 2 months When will I receive my tax refund?

What happens after I e-file? What does it mean when my tax return is accepted? Is it faster to file electronically or mail in my return?

What tax breaks can affect the timing of my refund? Should I file my taxes early? What if I miss the deadline? Are there any important tax dates to know? Yes, the following dates are important to keep in mind for tax season. Deadline to file and pay your tax bill if you have one is April 18, Deadline to file an extended return is October 17, Click here for a more complete list of important tax dates.

The information in this article is current through tax year Share article:. Get started today to get your maximum refund. They will provide an actual refund date as soon as the IRS processes your tax return and approves your refund.

Most refunds will be issued in less than 21 days. You can start checking the status of your refund within 24 hours after you have e-filed your return. Remember, the fastest way to get your refund is to e-file and choose direct deposit. You can also use the TurboTax Where's My Refund tracking guide that will show you how to check the status of your tax refund and common reasons for delays. Remember, with TurboTax , we'll ask you simple questions about your life and help you fill out all the right tax forms.

Whether you have a simple or complex tax situation, we've got you covered. Feel confident doing your own taxes. Just answer simple questions about your life, and TurboTax Free Edition will take care of the rest. For Simple Tax Returns Only. Where's My Refund?

Looking for inspiration? Bankrate offers five smart ways to invest your tax refund. How We Make Money. Michelle Black. Written by. Michelle Lambright Black is a credit expert with over 19 years of experience, a freelance writer and a certified credit expert witness.

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