You have up to 2 to 3 years from filing your returns to claim your refunds. No matter how small the amount, you are entitled to this money. How long it takes for you to wait for the refund depends on how you filed your tax returns. Read on how long does it take to get tax refund in the US, including how to expedite the process, smart spending tips when you finally get the amount, and more.
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Am I Eligible for a Tax Refund [US]?
There are two ways you can be eligible for a tax refund in the U.S. First is when you have overpaid your taxes during the year. The IRS will calculate the difference and return the overpaid amount to you. Second is when you qualify for refundable tax credits such as Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit (CTC).
Is There a Tax Refund in USA For Tourist?
The U.S. does not have a nationwide tax refund system for tourists on goods purchased while traveling. Any refunds issued are by the states, not by IRS. Currently, there are only two states that offer refunds: Texas and Washington. Conditions do apply, so it is a good idea to check with your state where you made the purchase from.
How Long Does It Take to Get Tax Refund?
The timing of your tax refund USA depends on how you file your tax return and the delivery method you select. The following table provides a general overview of the average processing times for each scenario.
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How Do I Get Tax Refunds?
You can receive your tax refund through 5 convenient options. The fastest of them is direct deposit into your checking, savings, or retirement account. With direct deposit, you can split the refund into up to three accounts.
Other options include:
- Paper Check
- Prepaid Debit Card
- Mobile Payment Apps
- IRA Deposit
To check your refund status, use the IRS tool ‘Where’s My Refund?’ or check the IRS2Go app.
Federal vs State Tax Refunds
Federal and state taxes are filed separately, depending on the state laws. So, you get two different tax refunds. Federal e-filed tax returns are processed within 21 days while state tax agencies have their own processing times. Some states may process refunds faster than others. So, you might get your state tax refund before or after the federal refund.
What Factors Affect the Refund Processing Time?
If you are experiencing delays with your refund, there can be a few possible explanations. Aside from the filing and refund methods chosen that we have mentioned above, processing times may also be delayed due to:
Incorrect Or Missing Information
If the IRS detects errors on your return, it may require further review, delaying processing. Incomplete returns may also need to be reviewed, slowing down the process.
Certain Tax Credits
Refunds for Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Additional Child Tax Credit are often held until mid-February to prevent fraud.
Identity Verification
In some cases, the IRS may choose to conduct a more in-depth review of your tax return. While this review is taking place, your refund will be put on hold until the IRS completes their investigation.
Filing During Peak Season
During peak tax season, the IRS experiences higher processing volumes, leading to longer waiting times.
Outstanding Tax Obligations
If you owe back taxes or other debts, your refund can be applied to those obligations, resulting in delays
Tips to Get Quicker Tax Refunds
File Early
The IRS processes returns on a first-come, first-served basis, so the earlier you file, the sooner your return will be processed. Aim to file your return as soon as you have all the necessary documents.
Re-Check for Accuracy
Even minor errors can delay processing and prompt further review by the IRS. Correct any errors promptly if you discover them after filing. Use Quickbooks for better accuracy in filing or consult our tax professionals.
Choose Direct Deposit
This is the fastest way to receive your refund, as it eliminates the wait for a paper check to arrive in the mail. The IRS will electronically transfer your refund directly to your bank account, usually within 21 days of approving your return.
Claim All Eligible Credits and Deductions
This can help you reduce your tax liability and increase your refund. Some common examples include the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credit, and deductions for charitable contributions and medical expenses.
Use the Correct Filing Status
Filing with the correct filing status can impact your tax liability and refund amount. Choose the filing status that best reflects your marital status and family situation.
Smart Tips on How to Spend Your Tax Refunds
For many taxpayers, receiving a large refund every year can be exciting. However, it is better to avoid overpaying your taxes and instead put the excess money to more productive use. For instance, you can open an individual retirement account (IRA) or an interest-yielding savings (ISA) account to earn returns while keeping your money accessible for emergencies or future goals.
You can also use that money to pay off debts, invest in your education or skill development, start your own business or side hustle or make long-term investment purchases that you’ve been putting off.
Other FAQs About Tax Refunds USA
If your tax refund is being delayed, use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on the IRS website to track its status. Additionally, you can check for any notices or letters from the IRS or contact them directly if the delay is longer than 21 days (for e-filing).
If you provided incorrect bank details, file an amended return to correct your bank account information. You can still receive a paper check with it will delay the process.
If you file a paper return, your refund should be issued in about six to eight weeks from the date the IRS receives your return.
Yes, self employed individuals are also eligible for tax refunds. If self-employed, file Schedule C with your tax return. Tax withholdings from sources like 1099 forms or estimated tax payments can also qualify you for a refund.
If you already owe taxes from previous years, the IRS can offset your current year’s refund to pay off past-due taxes. You have to resolve any outstanding tax obligations before expecting your current year’s refund.
Simplify Your Personal Tax Returns
Ultimately, the answer to the question of how long does it take to get a tax refund boils down to when you file your tax returns. The earlier and quicker your tax filings, the faster will be your refunds. Legend Fusions can simplify your taxes to minimize errors and maximize efficiency. By using advanced software and keeping a proactive approach, we enhance the accuracy of your returns, leading to quicker refunds. Partner with Legend Fusions to keep your personal finances in order throughout the year, not just during tax season.
Contact us now and let’s get started!
Reviewed by:

Hira Asif
Hira Asif, Client Manager (US) at Legend Fusions, brings over 11 years of tax expertise, including 8 years with Ernst & Young. Her work focuses on tax advisory, compliance, and planning for individuals, partnerships, and private equity funds. With a deep knowledge of federal, state, and local tax regulations, Hira is skilled in identifying tax planning opportunities and reviewing corporate and partnership tax returns to optimize compliance and reduce exposures.