IRS Refund Status April 18, 2026: How Long Is Your Refund Taking in 2025?
Millions of Americans are waiting for their 2025 tax refunds. Here’s exactly how long the IRS is taking right now, why refunds are delayed, and how to check your status.
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Updated April 18, 2026: The IRS is processing 2025 tax returns. Here’s the current refund timeline, the reasons for delays, and step-by-step instructions to check your refund status right now.
Current IRS Processing Times
How to Check Your Refund Status Right Now
Go to IRS.gov/refunds and use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool. You’ll need:
- Your Social Security number or ITIN
- Your filing status
- Your exact refund amount
The tool updates once per day, usually overnight. Check in the morning for the most current status.
Why Is Your Refund Delayed?
The most common reasons for IRS refund delays in 2025:
- Identity verification: IRS flagged your return for additional review (most common cause)
- Errors on return: Math errors, missing information, or mismatched W-2 data
- EITC or ACTC claims: By law, IRS cannot issue these refunds before mid-February
- Amended return: Form 1040-X takes 16-20 weeks minimum
- Staffing: IRS hired 87,000 new agents but processing backlogs remain
IRS Refund Status Codes Explained
| Status Message | What It Means |
|---|---|
| “Return Received” | IRS has your return and is processing it. Normal — no action needed. |
| “Refund Approved” | Processing complete. Your refund is on its way within 5 days (direct deposit) or 3 weeks (check). |
| “Refund Sent” | Money is deposited or check is mailed. If not received in 5 days, contact your bank. |
| No information shown | Return not yet received or entered into system. Try again in 24 hours after e-filing. |
When to Call the IRS
Only call if: it’s been 21+ days since e-filing with no update, or 6+ weeks since mailing a paper return. IRS phone: 1-800-829-1040 (best times: early morning, before 9 AM local time, or late afternoon).