Sat Apr 12 11:40:00 UTC 2025: **Tax Deadline Looms: IRS Offers Tips for Filing and Refund Tracking**

**Washington, D.C.** – With the 2025 tax deadline of April 15th rapidly approaching, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is urging taxpayers to file their returns promptly. Those expecting refunds are also advised on how to track their payments.

Taxpayers have until midnight on April 15th in their respective time zones to file electronically. Those mailing their returns should ensure they are postmarked by this date. Need more time? An extension until October 15th is available, but any taxes owed remain due on April 15th. Extensions can be requested electronically through IRS Free File or via Form 4868. Taxpayers affected by recent disasters may have additional time to file.

The IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool allows individuals to check their refund status online. Users need their Social Security number, filing status, and the exact refund amount. The tool will indicate whether the return is being processed, approved, or sent. Refunds typically arrive in bank accounts within five days and by mail within several weeks.

Many states also offer online refund tracking portals. Pennsylvania’s portal shows refund status roughly four weeks after electronic filing and twelve weeks after paper filing. Delaware’s portal is also available online.

This year, the IRS introduced Direct File, a free filing program for taxpayers with uncomplicated returns. Expanded to 25 states in 2025, Direct File is expected to serve 30 million taxpayers.

The average federal tax refund in 2024 exceeded $3,200, according to the IRS. Taxpayers are encouraged to utilize available resources and meet the April 15th deadline to avoid penalties.

Read More