Several factors can influence the timing of a refund after the IRS receives a tax return. While the IRS issues most refunds in less than 21 days, taxpayers are advised not to depend on receiving a 2024 federal tax refund by a specific date for major purchases or bill payments. Some returns may require additional review and take longer to process if there are possible errors, missing information, or indications of identity theft or fraud. 

Additionally, under the PATH Act, the IRS cannot issue refunds for tax returns claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) before mid-February. The IRS must hold the entire refund—not just the portion associated with these credits—until the review is complete.