With just a few hours left until the deadline to file federal tax returns in the United States, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has already processed more than 100.3 million returns. As of April 4, approximately 67 million refunds have been issued, with the total distributed exceeding $210 billion.
The IRS also reported a 3.5% increase in the average refund amount compared to the previous year, reflecting a positive trend in tax refunds this season. Although the general deadline is April 15, residents of states affected by natural disasters — such as Maine or California — have extensions.
So far, 99% of returns have been filed electronically, and the IRS projects to close the season with a similar volume to last year, despite a slight 0.4% reduction in returns received.
Progress in processing returns
The weekly IRS report details that, until the tenth week of 2025, 100.3 million returns have been managed, 0.2% more than in the same period in 2024. Of the total received (101.4 million), 98.1 million were sent digitally: 53.3 million by professionals and 44.7 million self-prepared. Only 2.1 million correspond to paper forms.
Average processing time remains stable, with 21 days for error-free electronic returns. However, the agency warns that paper submissions or submissions with inconsistencies could take up to 6 months. So far, 9 out of 10 refunds have been issued in less than three weeks.
Florida, Texas and Wyoming lead in average refunds during tax season
Average refunds vary significantly by state. Florida tops the list with an average of $3,852, closely followed by Texas ($3,774) and Wyoming ($3,720). These three states, along with Nevada ($3,643) and Louisiana ($3,577), present the highest amounts in the country, all above the national average, which stands at $3,164.
At the other extreme, the New England and Northeast regions of the country show refunds that are 12% lower than average. This difference is explained by factors such as state tax credits, the income profile of the population and access to tax advisory services. Louisiana also stands out for having a reimbursement rate of 73%, the third highest in the country.
Where’s My Refund? How to track your money
The IRS recommends using its “Where’s My Refund?” to monitor the status of refunds, accessible on your portal or through the IRS2Go app. Additionally, he suggests consulting the “essential cheat sheet” to avoid common mistakes and take advantage of partnerships with platforms like TurboTax or H&R Block, rated among the best tax software options for 2025.
Those requesting extensions have until October 15 to submit returns, although pending payments must be settled before the original deadline to avoid fines. The agency also offers online payment plans for debts over $10,000, with options of up to 72 months.