Millions of Americans filed their taxes in 2025, just like they do each year. However, this year has seen a number of significant developments, chief among them the rise in the average amount of tax returns that the IRS has issued. This change has been a relief, particularly for those who choose direct deposit.
How many tax returns were filed in 2025?
As per the IRS’s official report, up until May 9, 2025, 145,855,000 tax returns were received. The fact that this number is roughly 1.3% higher than it was in 2024 indicates that more people are aware of electronic tax filing.
About 143,556,000 of these refunds have already been processed, a significant increase over the 141,317,000 processed the previous year. This year, the IRS has obviously been more proactive and timely.
Are IRS direct deposits higher in 2025?

Indeed, the IRS reports that the average direct deposit amount in 2025 is $3,034, up from $2,960 in 2024. The 2.5% increase is equivalent to the “Cost-of-Living Adjustment” that Social Security declared this year.
This does not imply that all taxpayers will receive a bigger refund; rather, it is contingent upon each taxpayer’s unique tax circumstances, income, tax credits, and deductions.
Who doesn’t get a refund?
Some people don’t get any tax refund from the IRS because:
- Their income is so high that they have to pay taxes.
- They are not eligible for any kind of tax credit.
- They did not file on time or their information is incomplete.
However, some low-income citizens do not even know that they too may be eligible for some “Refundable Tax Credits”, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). In such a situation, they are advised to check their eligibility.
Is the average tax refund higher in 2025?
Indeed, based on IRS data, the average tax refund amount is $2,939, which is roughly 2.4% higher than the average of $2,869 in 2024. It is evident from this data that both direct deposits and total refund amounts are rising.
Potential Payment Date After Tax Return Filing
If you filed taxes electronically, chose direct deposit, and your filing is complete and accurate, your payment could be made by the IRS within 21 days. Below is an estimate of some potential payment dates:
Tax Return Filing Date | Potential Direct Deposit Date |
---|---|
1 June 2025 | 22 June 2025 |
2 June 2025 | 23 June 2025 |
3 June 2025 | 24 June 2025 |
4 June 2025 | 25 June 2025 |
5 June 2025 | 26 June 2025 |
6 June 2025 | 27 June 2025 |
7 June 2025 | 28 June 2025 |
8 June 2025 | 29 June 2025 |
9 June 2025 | 30 June 2025 |
Note that these are only estimates and may be delayed in some cases if documents are incomplete or require verification.
Conclusion: A Ray of Hope in the 2025 Tax Season
For the majority of Americans, the 2025 tax season has shown promise. The government’s efforts to improve citizens’ economic circumstances are evident in the rise in average tax refunds and direct deposits.
Every taxpayer should, however, file their return using their income, expenses, and tax credit details. Never assume you won’t receive a tax refund without checking; you might be eligible for one even if your income is extremely low.
FAQs
Q1. Are IRS direct deposit refunds higher in 2025?
Yes, the average IRS direct deposit refund in 2025 is $3,034, which is about 2.5% higher than in 2024.
Q2. Why might some people not receive a tax refund?
Some taxpayers have tax liabilities or don’t qualify for refundable tax credits, so they don’t receive a refund.
Q3. How many tax returns has the IRS received in 2025 so far?
As of May 9, 2025, the IRS has received approximately 145.8 million tax returns.
Q4. What is the average refund amount in 2025?
The average IRS refund in 2025 is $2,939, up from $2,869 in 2024.
Q5. When can I expect my refund after filing electronically?
If your return is accurate and complete, you may receive your direct deposit within 21 days of filing.
