Some dread doing taxes and wait until the last minute. But millions of others file early to get their tax refunds. What to expect in tax season 2025.

Tax season is underway, and the IRS expects 140 million people will file returns by April 15. If you file your tax return electronically, the IRS says it should take 21 days or fewer to receive your refund.

The IRS began processing tax returns Monday. For filers who submit their returns electronically using direct deposit, refunds are generally issued in less than 21 days. There is a caution from the tax agency, however, that urges “taxpayers not to rely on receiving refund by a certain date, especially when making major purchases or paying bills.

It is tax season once again. Monday marked the first day people can file their 2024 year taxes with the Internal Revenue Service. While many of us will file in the coming months, early filers are already wondering when they will see a refund check or direct deposit.

Before filing, taxpayers should have their: Social Security numbers for everyone listed on the tax return. Tax forms such as W-2s, 1099s, 1098s and other income documents. IRS letters they may have citing an amount received for a certain tax deduction or credit.

If you're planning to use your 2025 tax refund to buy paper Series I savings bonds, you'll need a new strategy. As of 2025, the U.S. Department of the Treasury has eliminated the option to buy paper I bonds through your tax refund.

The IRS has officially started accepting and processing tax returns. From new tools to direct file, there are plenty of things you might want to know about to make doing your taxes a little easier this year.