The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is continuing to process and distribute 2024 tax refunds throughout September 2025. The timing of when you receive your refund depends largely on when and how your return was filed. Most refunds being released this month are connected to returns that were recently finalized by the IRS.
This includes tax returns submitted during July and August, along with those that required manual review or corrections. A significant update is also underway: the IRS is ending paper checks and moving fully to electronic disbursements.
This change is mandated under Executive Order 14247, which aims to modernize payment systems, reduce fraud, and improve security.
Why You Might Receive a Refund in September
The IRS refund schedule depends on your filing method:
- Electronic returns with direct deposit are usually issued within 21 days of acceptance.
- Paper returns take longer, typically 4 to 8 weeks from the date received.
Most taxpayers who filed electronically before July have already received their payments. However, paper filers or those whose returns required further verification are among the main groups seeing refunds in September.
Refunds occur when the taxes paid exceed your liability. This may result from over-withholding on wages, refundable credits, or adjustments made by the IRS due to errors on a return.
Common Causes of Refund Delays
Several factors can push your refund past the standard timeline:
- Refundable credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) require additional verification under the PATH Act.
- Errors such as incorrect Social Security numbers or missing documents trigger manual reviews, sometimes extending processing up to 16 weeks.
- Extension filers who wait until October 15, 2025, may see refunds processed in late September or early October.
- Outstanding debts to state or federal agencies can lead to refunds being offset to cover obligations.
Tracking Your IRS Refund
The IRS offers two free digital tools for refund tracking:
- Where’s My Refund? – Available on the IRS website, provides updates 24 hours after an e-file or four weeks after mailing a paper return.
- IRS2Go Mobile App – Delivers identical tracking features.
To use these tools, you’ll need:
- Social Security number or ITIN
- Filing status
- Exact refund amount
The system displays three stages: Return Received, Refund Approved, and Refund Sent. Updates are refreshed daily, usually overnight. If instructed to call, taxpayers can reach the IRS at 800-829-1040.
Checklist for Smooth Refund Processing
- File your 2024 tax return by the deadline. Extension filers must submit by October 15, 2025, but taxes owed were due by April 15.
- Select direct deposit for the fastest and most secure refund delivery. Enter account and routing numbers carefully.
- Note that paper checks will be discontinued after September 30, 2025, making electronic refunds the only option.
- Use IRS Free File (for incomes up to $84,000 in 2024) to minimize filing errors.
The IRS is still processing refunds for taxpayers in September 2025, with the biggest factor affecting timing being the method of filing.
With the upcoming elimination of paper checks, choosing direct deposit and filing electronically ensures faster and more secure payments. Taxpayers are encouraged to use the IRS tracking tools to stay updated and plan accordingly.
FAQs
Why is the IRS stopping paper refund checks?
The IRS is phasing out paper checks under Executive Order 14247 to enhance security, prevent fraud, and streamline refund delivery.
How long does it take to receive an IRS refund?
Most electronic refunds with direct deposit arrive within 21 days, while paper returns can take 4 to 8 weeks or longer.
What should I do if my refund is delayed?
Check the Where’s My Refund? tool or the IRS2Go app. If instructed, contact the IRS at 800-829-1040 for assistance.
