If you claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), you can expect to get your refund March 1 if:

• You file your return online
• You choose to get your refund by direct deposit
• We found no issues with your return

However, some taxpayers may see their refunds a few days earlier. Check Where’s My Refund for your personalized refund date.

Additionally, your financial institution may need time to accept your direct deposit or issue a debit card. Many institutions don’t process payments on weekends or holidays. So, if you file early, be aware of federal and local holidays that may affect how soon you get your refund.

Why We Hold Your Refund

By law, we can’t issue EITC or ACTC refunds before mid-February. This includes your entire refund, not just the part that’s related to the credit you claimed on your tax return.

If you claim the EITC or ACTC, we may need more information from you about your return. If we do, we will send you a letter.

How to Track Your Refund

Check the status of your refund:

• Where’s My Refund
• IRS2Go app

We update these applications for most early EITC/ACTC filers with an estimated deposit date by February 19 if you file your taxes early.

We update both applications once a day, usually overnight.

Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH Act)

The Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH Act) made changes to the tax law:

• Refund delays: If you claim the EITC or ACTC, we can’t issue your refund before mid-February.
• Social Security number: You, your spouse and all qualifying children or relatives you claim on your tax return must have a valid Social Security number that was issued before the due date of the year you’re filing for (including extensions). This rule also applies to EITC claims you make when you amend your return or file an original return.

Resources

• Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
• Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)

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