Tax season can bring a welcome boost to your finances — if you’re expecting a refund from Inland Revenue (IRD). In 2025, IRD has updated its tax return processing schedule, and knowing when to expect your refund can help you plan your budget better. This guide walks you through the full timeline for 2025, including important dates, how refunds are processed, and tips to avoid common delays.
If you’re expecting a tax refund this year, you’re probably wondering: When will the money hit your account? The good news is that the IRD refund schedule 2025 is now available, giving New Zealanders a clear picture of when to expect their payments.
Here’s the full guide to your IRD tax refund NZ 2025.
Key Tax Return Dates for 2025
The IRD has confirmed the key dates for the 2025 tax year:
-
1 April 2025: Start of the new tax year.
-
7 July 2025: Final date for employers to submit employee earnings to IRD.
-
15 July 2025: Automatic tax assessments begin.
-
30 September 2025: Deadline to file your individual tax return (IR3) if required.
Most refunds are processed automatically if you’re eligible — no application needed!
How Long Does It Take to Get a Tax Refund?
If you’re owed a refund, here’s what you can expect:
| Stage | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Automatic assessments (no issues) | 2–5 working days after assessment |
| Manual reviews (additional documents) | Up to 8 weeks |
| Amendments or disputes | Up to 12 weeks |
You’ll receive an email or letter from IRD once your assessment is done, detailing any refund amount.
How to Speed Up Your IRD Refund
To get your tax refund faster, make sure:
-
Your bank account details are correct in myIR.
-
You respond quickly if IRD requests extra information.
-
You file any outstanding returns or correct errors early.
An accurate, up-to-date account saves you weeks of unnecessary delay!
Conclusion
Receiving your IRD tax refund on time is all about being prepared and understanding the 2025 timeline. By filing early, double-checking your information, and keeping track of key dates, you can make sure your refund arrives without unnecessary hiccups. A little preparation now can mean a smoother — and quicker — payout later in the year.
FAQs
Do I need to apply for a tax refund in New Zealand?
No, most refunds are automatic based on your filed information unless you’re self-employed or requested a special deduction.
What if I don’t get any notification by August?
If you haven’t heard from IRD by the end of August 2025, you should log into myIR or contact them directly.
Can I still claim tax credits separately?
Yes! Even if you’re processed automatically, you can still manually claim additional credits like the independent earner tax credit or donations rebate.
Will Working for Families payments affect my tax refund?
They might! If you received more Working for Families credits than you were entitled to, IRD may deduct the overpayment from your refund.
Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.