What You Need to Know About IRS Tax Refunds in 2025: Paper Checks Phasing Out & New Rules

Q: When will I get my refund in 2025?

Most refunds in 2025 are issued within 21 days of filing electronically with direct deposit. Paper returns can take 6–8 weeks. Refunds with Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) are legally delayed until mid-February.

Q: What if I don’t have a bank account?

If you don’t have a bank account, you can request your refund on a prepaid debit card or a Treasury-issued card. Since the IRS is ending paper refund checks after September 30, 2025, it’s recommended to open at least a basic bank account to avoid issues.

Q: Will Trump’s tax plan increase my refund?

Trump’s proposed 2025 tax reforms may expand standard deductions and child tax credits, which could increase refunds for many middle-class families. The actual impact depends on final legislation passed by Congress.

Q: How can I check my refund status?

You can check your refund status using the IRS 'Where’s My Refund?' tool at IRS.gov or through the IRS2Go mobile app. You’ll need your Social Security number, filing status, and exact refund amount.

Q: Why is my refund delayed?

Refund delays in 2025 can happen due to errors on the tax return, identity verification checks, claiming refundable credits like EITC or ACTC, or incorrect bank account details. Filing early and electronically reduces the risk of delays.

Q: Can I still request a paper check?

No. The IRS will no longer issue paper refund checks after September 30, 2025. All refunds will be delivered via direct deposit, prepaid debit card, or other approved digital methods.

Q: What if my refund is less than expected?

If your refund is smaller than expected, the IRS may have offset it to cover unpaid taxes, child support, or federal student loans. You can review details in your IRS Online Account.

Introduction

What You Need to Know About IRS Tax Refunds in 2025: Paper Checks Phasing Out & New Rules

Tax season always brings questions, expectations, and for many Americans—refunds. In 2025, however, taxpayers face a major shift: the IRS is officially phasing out paper refund checks starting September 30, 2025. This change, along with evolving tax rules and the impact of new political reforms, means understanding the refund process is more important than ever.

Whether you’re expecting a refund, concerned about delays, or wondering how President Trump’s new tax agenda might affect your wallet, this guide will cover everything you need to know. We’ll explain the biggest changes first, then walk through how to file, track, maximize, and protect your refund in 2025 and beyond.

IRS Refunds in 2025: The Biggest Updates

Paper Checks Are Ending

For decades, millions of Americans received their refunds as paper checks. That era is coming to a close. According to the IRS, all paper refund checks will stop after September 30, 2025, as part of the agency’s modernization efforts.

Why this change?

Security: Paper checks are more vulnerable to fraud, theft, or loss.
Speed: Direct deposits arrive much faster, often within 21 days.
Cost: Processing paper checks costs the IRS more than digital transfers.

What this means for you:

You’ll need a bank account, credit union account, or prepaid debit card linked to your tax return.
Taxpayers without banking access may use Treasury-sponsored prepaid debit cards or digital wallets.
If you rely on paper checks, plan ahead by opening an account now.

Trump’s Tax Reforms and Refunds

In 2025, President Trump’s administration is pursuing what he calls the “One Big, Beautiful Bill”, a sweeping tax package with potential refund implications:

Expanded Standard Deduction: Higher deductions could reduce taxable income, increasing refunds for some families.
Child Tax Credit Adjustments: Proposals include increasing refundable portions of credits.
Tariff Rebate Check Idea: Trump has suggested distributing “rebate checks” linked to tariff revenues—though details remain unclear, it could resemble a tax refund boost.

While not all reforms are finalized, taxpayers should stay alert. Refund amounts may rise for some, especially middle-class families, but the exact impact depends on final legislation.

Key Timeline for 2025 Refund Season

January 24, 2025 – IRS begins accepting returns.
February 15, 2025 – Earliest refunds for EITC/ACTC filers (per anti-fraud law).
April 15, 2025 – Tax filing deadline.
September 30, 2025 – Final day for paper refund checks.

How to File and Track Your IRS Tax Refund

Filing accurately and tracking your refund ensures you get your money as soon as possible.

Filing Your Return in 2025

Choose a Filing Method
- IRS Free File (income below $79,000).
- Tax software like TurboTax, H&R Block, or TaxAct.
- Professional tax preparer.
Provide Accurate Banking Info
- Enter routing and account numbers carefully.
- Double-check if using prepaid debit cards or mobile wallets.
E-File with Direct Deposit
- Fastest way to get your refund.
- Paper returns take 6–8 weeks or more.

Tracking Your Refund

The IRS provides two main tools:

Where’s My Refund? (IRS.gov or IRS2Go app)
IRS Online Account (detailed balance, payment history, transcripts).

Processing times:

Direct deposit: Within 21 days for most.
Paper return: 6–8 weeks.
Refund with credits (EITC/ACTC): Mid-February earliest.

Maximizing Your Refund in 2025

A refund isn’t just about how much you paid—it’s about strategic planning. Here’s how to boost yours:

Claim All Eligible Tax Credits

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): Up to $7,000+ for qualifying families.
Child Tax Credit (CTC): Proposed increases could mean bigger checks.
Education Credits: American Opportunity and Lifetime Learning Credits.
Energy-Efficient Home Credits: Upgrades like solar, insulation, and EVs.

Optimize Deductions

Mortgage interest, medical expenses, and student loan interest.
Retirement contributions (401k, IRA) can reduce taxable income.
Charitable donations—ensure documentation.

Adjust Withholding Wisely

If you’re consistently getting large refunds, consider adjusting your W-4. This gives you more money throughout the year instead of waiting for tax season.

IRS Refund Delays: What to Expect in 2025

Even with modernization, delays remain common.

Common Causes of Delays

Errors on the return (wrong Social Security number, math mistakes).
Identity theft checks (IRS fraud filters flag suspicious returns).
Claiming credits (EITC/ACTC refunds legally delayed until mid-February).
Incorrect bank info (refund bounces back).

IRS Staffing and Backlogs

Although the IRS is adding staff under its modernization plan, past backlogs show delays can happen, especially during peak filing periods.

How to Avoid Delays

File electronically and early.
Triple-check personal and banking details.
Use IRS-approved tax software for error checks.
Respond quickly if the IRS requests verification.

Digital Refund Future: Beyond 2025

As paper checks disappear, the IRS is moving toward digital-first refunds.

Direct Deposits Only: Fastest and most secure.
Prepaid Debit Cards: For unbanked households.
Digital Wallets: Future integration with PayPal, Cash App, Venmo is possible.
Blockchain Security: Experts predict long-term use of blockchain for faster, tamper-proof refunds.

This modernization aligns with global trends—many countries already issue only digital refunds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. When will I get my refund in 2025?
Most refunds are issued within 21 days of filing electronically with direct deposit. Paper returns take 6–8 weeks.

Q2. What if I don’t have a bank account?
You can request your refund on a prepaid debit card or Treasury-backed card. Consider opening a basic account before September 2025 to avoid issues.

Q3. Will Trump’s tax plan increase my refund?
It depends. If standard deductions rise or credits expand, many middle-class families may see higher refunds. Final impact will depend on Congress.

Q4. How can I check my refund status?
Use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool or IRS2Go app. You’ll need your SSN, filing status, and refund amount.

Q5. Why is my refund delayed?
Common reasons: errors, fraud checks, claiming credits like EITC/ACTC, or incorrect bank details.

Q6. Can I still request a paper check?
No. After September 30, 2025, paper checks will no longer be available.

Q7. What if my refund is less than expected?
The IRS may offset your refund for unpaid taxes, student loans, or child support.

Conclusion

Tax refunds are changing in 2025, and taxpayers need to be prepared. With the end of paper refund checks, a growing shift to digital payments, and potential tax reforms under Trump’s new agenda, it’s more important than ever to stay informed.

The best strategy? File early, file electronically, and ensure your banking details are correct. By claiming all eligible credits and deductions, you’ll maximize your refund while avoiding delays.

Tax season may be stressful, but with the right information, you can navigate the changes and secure your money faster.