As tax season heats up and refund anxiety grows, the Internal Revenue Service is, so far, holding the line. Despite concerns about layoffs and a near-miss government shutdown, tax professionals report no major delays in tax refunds—yet.
The IRS began processing 2024 returns on January 27 and has remained on schedule through mid-March, even after the agency initiated job cuts in late February. A looming shutdown was narrowly avoided after Congress passed a funding bill on March 15, ensuring operations stay fully staffed—at least temporarily.
“People should not rush to file, nor should they delay,” said Tom O’Saben of the National Association of Tax Professionals. “Just proceed as usual—file accurately and electronically.”
Still, uncertainty clouds the horizon. The National Treasury Employees Union warns of possible deeper cuts to IRS staffing in May, which could cause processing slowdowns during the final stretch of tax season.
So far, the average refund for 2024 returns is $3,382, a 6.3% increase from last year, with over $124 billion already issued. Yet returns received and processed are slightly down year over year, suggesting many filers are still waiting on critical forms like 1099s and K-1s.
And don’t forget the new 1099-K rules: anyone who earned more than $5,000 via payment apps or online sales in 2024 may see new tax documents—and possible confusion.
The IRS says most e-filers can expect their refunds within 21 days, often faster with direct deposit. Mailed returns or those flagged for review can take longer—especially during peak filing weeks leading up to April 15.
For now, experts say the best strategy is simple: take your time, file carefully, and check your refund status using the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool.
The system remains mostly automated, which helps ensure timely refunds—unless further disruptions hit.
With the final month of tax season underway, accuracy and e-filing remain your best bet to avoid delays—and to keep your refund from getting caught in the chaos.
– More 2025 IRS Tax Season Updates from FingerLakes1.com
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