Millions of taxpayers who file by April 15 may receive extra funds, including late 2021 stimulus payments.
The 2025 tax season is moving fast, but it’s not too late to secure your IRS refund—and possibly a pending stimulus check. Over 70 million people had already filed as of mid-March, yet a significant number still need to take action before April 15. If you’re among them, here’s what you should know.
IRS deadlines and steps to file your tax return hassle-free in 2025
The most urgent date is April 15. Missing that cut could lead to penalties unless you request an extension. However, an extension only delays filing, not the payment of taxes if you owe. Keep in mind the following tips:
- File electronically: Paper filings often take much longer to process.
- Request direct deposit: Faster than a paper check, plus more secure.
- Check everything twice: Even small errors (like a wrong account number) can cause delays.
Will they fine you if you file after April 15? The answer is yes—unless you obtain an extension. Filing late without notifying the IRS may result in penalties and interest on any unpaid balance.
Why some taxpayers in the United States may still receive a 2021 Stimulus Check
There is no brand-new, across-the-board stimulus in 2025. However, the IRS is issuing overdue $1,400 payments to those who qualified for the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit but never received it. If you believe you’re eligible, file a 2021 return before April 15, 2025.
After that, this credit expires. For most people, the stimulus funds arrived years ago, but a subset still has one last chance.
How to speed up refunds and avoid common mistakes that delay your 2025 payment
Filing early in March or April? Check these common hurdles:
- Incomplete forms: Ensure every field is filled out.
- Mismatched personal details: Names and Social Security numbers must align perfectly.
- Direct deposit info errors: One digit off can mean a big headache.
When everything is correct, the IRS generally issues refunds within three weeks for electronic returns.
Observations about Tax Filing Trends, average refund amounts, and direct deposits
As of March 14, the Internal Revenue Service had already sent over $162.992 billion in refunds—6.7% more than in 2024. Although fewer taxpayers have filed compared to last year (down by about 1.7%), the average refund has jumped by 4.8%, reaching $3,330. Direct deposit remains the preferred payout method, with more than $160.919 billion transferred securely to bank accounts. That quicker access has helped Americans combat rising prices and ongoing inflation. Below is a short table summarizing possible refund release timelines in April:
| Return Accepted By | Estimated Direct Deposit | Paper Check Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| March 25 | April 15 | Late April or Early May |
| April 1 | April 21 | Early to Mid-May |
| April 15 | Early May | Mid to Late May |
If you file right before the deadline, expect your money to arrive a few weeks later. Filing sooner typically means a faster refund.
Many rural residents face challenges like limited internet access and difficulty traveling to IRS offices. For these communities, requesting help from local nonprofit organizations or calling the IRS helpline can make a difference. Meanwhile, households nationwide continue to rely on refunds for essentials such as groceries, rent, and medical bills. If you encounter snags, consider contacting the Taxpayer Advocate Service for extra support.