Tax season can be stressful, but for low- and moderate-income workers, the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) offers a valuable opportunity to reduce tax liability and even receive a refund. If you’re eligible and have already filed your return, you’re probably wondering when your refund will arrive.
The good news? Most refunds, including EITC refunds, are made in 21 days or less—but there are a few things to keep in mind.
Refund Processing
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has regulations regarding the issuing of EITC refunds. Regardless of whether you filed early, the IRS will not be able to issue EITC refunds until mid-February due to federal law. This wait is to allow for claims to be verified and reduce the chance for fraudulent refunds.
If you submitted early and complied with all IRS mandates—i.e., e-filing your return, opting for direct deposit, and making no errors—you might have already been paid your refund as of March 3, 2025.
When to Expect
After you’ve sent your tax return to the EITC, your refund will be received within 21 days if all goes well. The following is an approximate idea of when you can search for your refund based on when you file:
To determine the status of your refund, visit the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool on their website.
| Filing Date | Expected Refund Date |
|---|---|
| Before February 12 | Already received (if no errors) |
| February 13 – 19 | March 6 – 12 |
| February 20 – 26 | March 13 – 19 |
| February 27 – March 5 | March 20 – 26 |
How to Claim
In order to be eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit, you must file a tax return even if you don’t have any taxes due. This is what you do:
- File Form 1040 or 1040-SR – The IRS mandates that taxpayers file these forms to qualify for the credit.
- Attach Schedule EIC – If you have children who qualify, you must attach this.
- E-file your return – Processing is quicker and fewer errors are made.
- Choose direct deposit – This will return your refund to you in the shortest amount of time.
If you didn’t claim the EITC on your return but were eligible for it, you can still file an amended return using Form 1040-X to collect your credit.
Common Reasons
Refunds arrive within 21 days in most cases, although there are exceptions. The IRS will keep your refund if:
- Your return contains errors or duplicate information
- You failed to include required forms and backup documents
- Your bank account for direct deposit was incorrect
- The IRS selected your return for additional review
If your refund is delayed or not arriving promptly, look up its status on the IRS website or contact the IRS directly for information.
Filing your taxes correctly and on time enables you to receive your EITC refund on time. If you have already submitted your return, prepare in advance based on the estimated time period.
If you have not filed, double check your details to avoid unwarranted delays. A little effort now saves time later!
FAQ’s
Q. How long can I have my EITC refund?
A. Refunds are sent out in 21 days from the date of acceptance.
Q. Why would my EITC refund be late?
A. Delays may result from errors, incomplete forms, or IRS checks.
Q. Can I get the EITC if I didn’t claim it?
A. Yes, file an amended return on Form 1040-X.
Q. Does the IRS withhold all EITC refunds?
A. Yes, federal law bars refunds from being issued until mid-February.
Q. How can I check my refund status?
A. Visit the website and use the IRS ‘Where’s My Refund?’ tool.