The layoffs, which have been directed by the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by billionaire and "special government employee" Elon Musk, have sparked concerns among experts who fear that the IRS won't be able to process Americans' tax refunds as quickly as usual this year.

The IRS has issued more than 29.6 million individual income tax refunds through Feb. 21, up 2.3% from a year ago.

More than 30 million taxpayers across the country are eligible to file their federal tax returns completely free-of-charge this year using Direct File, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has said. Tax season is underway, with the IRS currently accepting payments and returns for 2024. The deadline to file is April 15.

As the April 15 filing deadline looms, the Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers that after three years, any unclaimed 2021 tax year refunds go to the U.S. Treasury.

If you've already filed your tax return, it's natural to wonder when you'll receive your refund. One of the most common questions is the exact time the IRS makes deposits.