Your IRS tax refund check could be on the way. Here's how to track it online, and what to do if you lose your refund check.

The IRS has issued more than 29.6 million individual income tax refunds through Feb. 21, up 2.3% from a year ago.

If you've already filed your tax return, it's natural to wonder when you'll receive your refund. One of the most common questions is the exact time the IRS makes deposits.

The IRS said the average refund amount has increased by 7.5% this year, going from $3,213 in 2024 to $3,453 so far in 2025. The average direct deposit refund was also up by 7.1% from last year – at an average of $3,505. The IRS began accepting tax returns on January 27, 2025.

The IRS estimates that more than 1.1 million taxpayers might have qualified for a refund in 2021 but did not file a federal income tax return to claim it.

Understanding the timing of your IRS tax refund can significantly impact your financial planning. By submitting your tax return promptly and utilizing electronic filing, you can expedite the process and receive your refund sooner.

The Trump administration’s changes to the federal government could alter the tax filing process for this year’s reporting period and beyond. Reports indicate the Department of Government Efficiency has taken a long look at the IRS,

The median potential refund nationwide is $781 for 2021. Florida, with 69,800 individuals who did not file, is just below the median potential refund at $721. New Yorkers — 73,000 of them — left the most money in the IRS till: $995.

Despite the similar-sounding names, returns and refunds are hugely different, yet hugely important aspects of the tax filing season. Your return is what you file with the IRS list

As the April 15 filing deadline looms, the Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers that after three years, any unclaimed 2021 tax year refunds go to the U.S. Treasury.