The IRS has issued more than 29.6 million individual income tax refunds through Feb. 21, up 2.3% from a year ago.

Kaercher says that risks to the filing season could include delayed tax refunds, inability to answer as many phone calls or help lines, and “there’s a question of whether they retained the right people in house” to quickly solve technical issues should they arise during tax season.

As the 2025 tax season unfolds, understanding the IRS refund schedule and factors affecting payment timelines is crucial for effective financial planning. Learn how to expedite your refund and navigate potential delays.