If DOGE Succeeds in Closing the IRS: What Would Happen to Your Tax Refunds?

As you eagerly anticipate your 2025 tax refund, you probably have many questions about when it will hit your bank account and how to track it if there are any delays.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from the expected timeline to potential delays this year, and provide useful tips for handling the situation efficiently.

When Can You Expect Your Tax Refund in 2025?

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One of the most common questions on everyone’s mind is: When will I receive my tax refund? If you file your tax return electronically, you can generally expect your refund within 21 days.

However, if you prefer to file a paper return, the processing time can stretch to six to eight weeks.

This year, however, there may be some delays due to changes in the IRS workforce, so it’s a good idea to file early to avoid any unnecessary waiting. Don’t wait until the last minute as delays could occur.

How to Track Your Refund with the IRS

2025 Tax Season- IRS Boosts Average Tax Refund by Over 30%

Once you’ve filed your return, if you’re curious about the status of your refund, the IRS provides a simple tool called “Where’s My Refund?” available on their website.

You’ll need to provide your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact amount of your expected refund to track it.

If you need assistance, you can contact the IRS directly:

• For current year refunds: Call 800-829-1954.
• For amended returns: Call 866-464-2050.

New Scam Alert- IRS Text Message Claiming a $1,400 Refund Could Be the Start of Fraud

Don’t panic if your refund doesn’t appear exactly when you expect it. Use the tracking tool first before jumping to conclusions.

Why Are There Potential Delays with Tax Refunds This Year?

While we all hope for a smooth tax season, there are a few reasons you might experience a delay this year.

The IRS has recently undergone some staffing changes, which could affect how quickly they process tax returns. Under the Trump administration, a program known as “deferred resignation” was implemented, offering federal employees compensation if they left their positions voluntarily.

This program was designed to reduce the workforce by 5-10%; however, only 3% of employees opted to leave.

The remaining IRS employees will need to work until May 15, 2025, to keep tax season running smoothly, but with fewer staff members, some refunds may take longer than usual.

Important IRS Dates You Should Know

Don’t forget these key dates to avoid unnecessary delays:

• April 15, 2025: The last day to file your federal tax return. If this date falls on a weekend or holiday, you might get a few extra days. However, it’s always better to file early rather than wait until the deadline.

Filing early not only speeds up the process of receiving your refund, but it also ensures you won’t be caught off guard by any last-minute complications.

The Myth: Can Elon Musk’s DOGE Replace the IRS?

The idea of eliminating the IRS may sound appealing to some, but can it really be done? The simple answer is no. While influential figures, including political leaders and businessmen, have expressed dissatisfaction with the IRS, dismantling it would be a highly complex task.

The IRS was created by the U.S. Congress, meaning any move to eliminate the agency would require new legislation. While some may discuss bypassing this through executive orders, this route faces significant legal hurdles. Changing the law is the only way to actually eliminate the IRS.

What Happens if the IRS Is Abolished?

A common misconception is that if the IRS were to be abolished, taxes would disappear too. This, however, is not the case. The U.S. government would still need a system in place to collect taxes.

According to George W. Connelly, a tax attorney, even without the IRS, the country would still need a system to collect taxes. Experts in the field prefer the current system—flaws and all—over the potential complexity of a new one.

Simply renaming the IRS or creating a new entity wouldn’t solve the fundamental issue of tax collection. Taxes would still need to be collected, and tax refunds would continue as usual.

Navigating the tax season in 2025 might come with a few hurdles, but with the right information, you can be prepared for any delays and ensure a smooth process for filing your taxes and receiving your refund.

From using IRS tools to track your refund to understanding potential delays, this guide provides all the essential details to keep you informed. Don’t forget to file early and keep an eye on important deadlines to avoid unnecessary waiting.

FAQs

How long does it take to get a tax refund if I file electronically?

If you file electronically, you should receive your refund within 21 days.

What should I do if I haven’t received my refund yet?

Use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool to track your refund or contact the IRS for more information.

Can the IRS be abolished?

While there has been talk of eliminating the IRS, doing so would require new legislation passed by Congress.