How Long Do Tax Refunds Take in New York State?

If you’re anything like me (and most New Yorkers), you file your taxes and then immediately start refreshing your bank app like it owes you money… because technically, it does.

So let’s talk about when New Yorkers can expect their tax refunds this season, what could slow things down, and how to check your status.

When Are Taxes Due in New York?

The Internal Revenue Service started accepting federal tax returns in late January. Federal tax returns are due April 15 while New York State income taxes are also due April 15.

If you’re cutting it close, you can request a six-month extension (until October 15). But an important reminder: an extension gives you more time to file, not more time to pay. If you owe, payment is still due April 15 to avoid penalties.

When Will I Get My Tax Refund?

Here’s the good news. If you e-file and choose direct deposit, most refunds arrive within 21 days. If you mail a paper return, expect 6–8 weeks after the IRS receives it.

Choosing direct deposit is the fastest (and safest) option. The IRS is also moving away from issuing paper checks for most taxpayers, so direct deposit is now the default for many filers.

Why Your Refund Might Take Longer

Some common reasons refunds get delayed:

You claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit
Your return needs additional review
You mailed your return instead of e-filing
You owe existing federal debts

Refunds May Be Bigger This Year

Tax refunds in 2025 are expected to be larger than usual thanks to changes in tax rules. About 75% of Americans typically receive refunds with the average refund last year being $2,939.

Big New York State Tax Credit Update

New York expanded its Empire State Child Credit, which now offers up to $330 per child ages 4–16 and up to $1,000 per child under age 4.

The minimum income requirement has been eliminated, meaning more low-income families can now receive the full credit.

How to Check Your Refund Status

For federal refunds, use the Where’s My Refund? tool on IRS.gov or the IRS2Go mobile app. To check the status of your New York refund, click here.

You’ll need:

Social Security number or ITIN
Filing status
Exact refund amount

Updates happen once per day, usually overnight.

One important thing to remember: the clock starts when the IRS officially receives and enters your return, which may be a few days after e-filing or a few weeks after mailing.

TL:DR How Long Until I Receive My Refund?

If you e-filed and chose direct deposit, there’s a solid chance your refund will land within three weeks. If it’s taking longer, don’t panic, especially if you claimed child-related credits.

And yes… it’s totally acceptable to mentally spend your refund before it arrives. Just maybe don’t buy the couch until the money actually hits.