ITR Refund 2025: When Will Your Income Tax Refund Be Credited?

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Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) is only half the journey - waiting for your ITR refund is the part taxpayers look forward to the most. With the extended deadline of 16 September 2025 now behind us, many are eagerly checking their bank accounts to see when the refund will arrive. But how long does it really take? Let’s break it down.


How Long Does It Take to Get an Income Tax Refund ?


The refund process kicks off only after your ITR is successfully e-verified. In some straightforward cases, taxpayers have received refunds within a few days, and in rare cases, even on the very same day - especially when the amount is small.

However, on average, most income tax refunds are credited within four to five weeks of filing. This timeline depends on the checks carried out by the Income Tax Department under Section 143(1). While smaller refunds are usually processed faster, larger claims or returns with multiple deductions can take more time.


Also Read: How to Check Your ITR Status Online Using PAN: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Why Do Some ITR Refunds Get Delayed?


Not every refund follows the same timeline. Refunds may take longer in cases involving:


  • Capital gains or business income that require extra verification.
  • Large refund amounts that undergo detailed scrutiny.
  • Deductions and exemptions, as new checks this year may add to the processing time.

If discrepancies are found, the department may send a notice for clarification, and delays are likely until the matter is resolved.

What If Your ITR Refund Takes Longer?


Tax experts note that while many refunds are processed quickly, some can stretch close to a month depending on the volume of pending returns. The silver lining is that if your refund is delayed, the Income Tax Department pays an interest of 6% per annum, starting from 1 April of the assessment year.

Is There a Limit on Income Tax Refunds ?


There’s no maximum limit on how much you can receive as a refund. Whether it’s excess TDS, advance tax, or self-assessment tax, you are entitled to get back the exact amount you overpaid.

Also Read: ITR Refund Pending? Top Causes and How to Fix Them


When Can You Expect Your ITR Refund in 2025?


In most cases, if your ITR is filed accurately and verified on time, you can expect your ITR refund within a few weeks. Some taxpayers may be lucky enough to see the credit in just a couple of days, while others with complex returns might need to wait a little longer.

Either way, rest assured - your refund is on its way, and even if it takes extra time, you’ll be compensated with interest.