How Long is the Tax Refund to Show in the Bank? IRS Deposit Timeline Explained

Person working at a desk with a laptop and documents, representing the process of receiving a tax refund to show in bank.

When your tax return is filed and the IRS approves your refund, the next question is usually: When will the money actually arrive? While the IRS issues most refunds quickly, the exact time it takes for the funds to appear in your account depends on how you chose to receive them and a few other factors.

Direct Deposit vs. Check Refunds

Most taxpayers today select direct deposit as their refund method because it’s faster, more secure, and eliminates the risk of a lost or stolen check. However, the IRS still offers paper checks, which take longer to arrive.

Timeline for Direct Deposit

After approval, a refund sent by direct deposit typically shows up in your bank account within 1–5 business days. Many people see their money within 1–3 days, though exact timing depends on your bank’s deposit schedule.

Timeline for Mailed Checks

If you opted for a paper check, you’ll generally need to wait 1–3 weeks after the IRS issues it. The U.S. Postal Service and regional mail delivery speed play a role in how quickly you receive it.

Factors That May Affect Timing

Even after the IRS sends your refund, certain issues can slow down when it appears in your account:

  • Bank Processing Times: Each financial institution has its own posting policies. Some release deposits right away, while others take longer.

  • Weekends & Federal Holidays: Deposits aren’t processed during these times, which can push your refund to the next business day.

  • Errors in Account Information: If the routing or account number you provided was wrong, your bank may reject the deposit. In that case, the IRS will mail you a check instead.

How to Track Your Refund

The IRS offers two tools to help taxpayers check the status of their refund:

  • “Where’s My Refund?” Tool – Found on the IRS website, this service shows whether your refund is being processed, approved, or issued.

  • IRS2Go Mobile App – Provides the same information in app format, making it easy to track your refund on the go.

Both update once per day, usually overnight.

What to Do If It’s Delayed

If your refund is taking longer than expected, here are the steps you can take:

  • Wait at least 21 days after filing electronically. While many refunds arrive sooner, the IRS asks taxpayers to allow this amount of time.

  • Verify your direct deposit details to confirm the account and routing numbers are correct.

  • Contact the IRS only if the “Where’s My Refund?” tool instructs you to call, or if more than 21 days have passed with no update.

If you require any professional assistance, Dimov Partners stands ready. Contact us today for expert assistance in tracking and managing as well as securing your refund quickly.

FAQs

  • How long does it take for a tax refund to show in the bank after being approved?

  • Why is my refund approved but not deposited?

  • Can the IRS take longer than 21 days to refund?

  • What time of day do IRS deposits hit your account?

George Dimov