The IRS has reported that, as of March 14, 2025, more than 70 million taxpayers have completed their United States tax returns. Despite this significant number, the number of returns is 1.7% lower compared to the same period in 2024.
One of the highlights of this season is the increase in refunds, which is a relief for many citizens in the face of inflation. To date, the IRS has refunded more than $162.992 billion, representing a 6.7% growth over the previous year. Of this total, $160.919 billion has been sent through direct deposits, a mode that has increased by 6.8% compared to 2024.
How much money does each taxpayer get on average?
IRS statistics indicate that the average refund taxpayers have gotten by direct deposit as of March 14 is $3,330, or 4.8% more than the previous year. However, the amount varies on a case-by-case basis, with some individuals getting anywhere from $2,600 to higher amounts.
Overall, the average refund for the 2025 tax season stands at $3,271, reflecting a 5.2% increase over 2024. This increase in payments benefits many citizens facing the impact of inflation and the rising cost of living.
Although the number of returns has decreased, this does not affect the money received by taxpayers. What has gone down is the number of people who have visited the IRS website or used tax professionals to file their returns.
Estimated dates for IRS direct deposits
Refund processing time depends on several factors. Those taxpayers who have met these three requirements may get their money in 21 days or less:
- Have filed electronically.
- Have applied for a refund by direct deposit.
- Have submitted a complete, error-free return.
If the IRS needs to do an additional review, the deposit may take longer. To find out the exact date of the refund, taxpayers can use the “Where’s My Refund? ” tool on the IRS website.
Based on the date the return was mailed, the IRS sets an estimated direct deposit schedule:
Filing Date → Estimated Deposit Date
✔ March 3 → March 24
✔ March 4 → March 25
✔ March 5 → March 26
✔ March 6 → March 27
✔ March 7 → March 28
✔ March 8 → March 29
✔ March 9 → March 30.
For those who have not yet filed their return, doing it electronically and requesting direct deposit is still the best option to get the money in the shortest possible time.