Many taxpayers in the United States wonder whether the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has started approving tax returns, especially during and after the busy tax filing season. The IRS is responsible for processing millions of returns each year, and understanding the timing of when returns are accepted, processed, and approved can help taxpayers set realistic expectations. Rather than a single moment when all returns begin approving, the IRS follows a phased processing schedule that depends on how and when you file, the type of return you submit, and whether any reviews or issues are flagged during processing. Understanding the IRS timeline, tools for checking your refund or approval status, and factors that affect processing can help you stay informed about your tax return’s progress.
When IRS Begins Accepting and Processing Returns
The IRS officially opens the tax filing season on a set date each year, and it begins accepting and processing returns from that point forward. For example, in 2025, the IRS opened the filing season on January 27 for individual tax year 2024 returns. From that date, systems were online to receive electronic submissions and begin processing them. The filing deadline for most taxpayers, however, remains midApril, around April 15. The period from late January until the deadline is the busiest time for the IRS, as millions of taxpayers submit their returns.
Electronic vs. Paper Filing
How you file your return affects how quickly it can be accepted and processed. Electronically filed returns are generally received and accepted faster than paper returns. Once an electronic return is submitted, the IRS typically acknowledges receipt within 24 to 48 hours. After acceptance, the IRS begins processing, which may lead to an approved status if no issues are identified. Paper returns, by contrast, take longer to process because they must be manually scanned and entered into the system. IRS processing schedules currently indicate that paper returns received months ago are still being reviewed, and the IRS works through these in chronological order.
Understanding IRS Processing and Approval
It’s important to distinguish between the IRS accepting, processing, and approving a return. When a return is accepted, it means the IRS has received it and found it complete enough to begin running checks and calculations. However, the IRS may still need to review the return further before marking it as fully processed or approved, especially if there are credits claimed or potential issues. The IRS offers an online tool called Where’s My Refund? that shows status updates, including Return Received, Refund Approved, and Refund Sent once your refund is ready or issued.
Normal Processing Timeline
For many taxpayers, electronic returns that are not flagged for special review are processed within about 21 days after acceptance. This is a general guideline often cited by the IRS, but actual timelines can vary. Processing may take longer if your return includes complicated credits, errors, identity verification requirements, or if the IRS identifies discrepancies that need correction. For paper returns, processing can take many weeks or even months longer. Patience is critical, and checking your status periodically can help reduce frustration.
Tools for Checking IRS Processing Status
The IRS provides several ways for taxpayers to track the progress of their tax returns and refunds. These tools can indicate whether the IRS has started approving your return and whether a refund is being issued.
Where’s My Refund?
The Where’s My Refund? tool is the most commonly used IRS resource for individuals expecting a refund. Once you file your return and it is received by the IRS, this tool provides status updates. Typical statuses include
- Return Received – IRS has received your return and will start processing it.
- Refund Approved – IRS has finished processing and approved your refund amount.
- Refund Sent – IRS has issued your refund via direct deposit or paper check.
To use this tool, you need your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), your filing status, and the exact refund amount claimed on your return. This information helps the IRS verify your identity and provide secure updates.
Factors That Affect Return Approval Timing
Several factors influence how soon the IRS will approve and finalize your return. Knowing these can help you understand why some taxpayers see approval sooner than others.
Credits and Deductions
Returns claiming refundable credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) may be subject to additional review. The IRS may delay approval of these returns to ensure the credits are correctly claimed. If your return contains such credits, you may experience a longer wait time before approval and refund issuance.
Error Checks and Identity Verification
If the IRS detects potential errors, missing information, or concerns over identity theft, your return may be paused for manual review or verification. This can lead to delays in approval even if you filed early. In such cases, the IRS will often send a letter requesting additional information or instructions to verify your identity. Responding promptly to any IRS correspondence can help speed up the approval process.
High Filing Volume and Resource Constraints
Tax season is an especially busy time for the IRS, and high filing volume can slow processing. Additionally, staffing levels and agency resources can impact how quickly returns are examined and approved. Reports suggest that changes in staffing or administrative shifts may influence processing times, particularly early in the season or when the IRS integrates new systems and procedures.
How to Prepare and Avoid Delays
While you cannot control how quickly the IRS processes your return, there are steps you can take to minimize potential delays and aid in faster approval.
File Electronically
Electronic filing reduces errors and speeds up acceptance and processing. Filing electronically with direct deposit selected for refunds is generally the fastest way to have your return approved and refund issued. Many taxpayers find e-file helps reduce math errors and automatically checks for common issues.
DoubleCheck Your Return
Ensuring that your return is complete, accurate, and free of errors on names, Social Security numbers, and credits can help prevent processing delays. Simple mistakes can trigger manual review, which slows down the approval timeline.
Respond to IRS Requests Promptly
If the IRS contacts you for additional information or verification, replying quickly and thoroughly can help ensure your return is approved sooner. Ignoring such requests can lead to further delays or refund holds.
Check Status Regularly
Using the IRS tools to monitor your return’s progress helps you stay informed and know when approval or refund issuance occurs. Early visibility into the status can answer questions about whether your return has been accepted, reviewed, approved, or sent.
So has the IRS started approving returns? The answer depends on the time of year, how you filed, and the specifics of your return. Once the IRS begins the filing season, it accepts and processes returns continuously, and many electronically filed returns are processed and approved within about 21 days. However, periods of high volume, complex credits, errors, or other review triggers can result in longer timelines. Tools like Where’s My Refund? give insight into approval status, and proactive steps like accurate filing, electronic submission, and responsive communication can help speed up processing. While the IRS does approve returns throughout the filing season, individual experiences vary, so patience and understanding of the IRS process are key to a smoother tax refund journey.