With the Internal Revenue Service now accepting 2024 tax returns some taxpayers are already counting down the days until they receive their refund. However, the IRS says taxpayers who claim a pair of tax credits might be waiting longer than anticipated to receive their money.

It depends on how you file your taxes and how you choose to receive your refund. If you file electronically and your return is accurate and complete, the IRS says it should take less than three weeks to receive your refund and even less time if you choose direct deposit.

A taxpayer who submits an electronic return with the direct deposit can expect to receive their money within 21 days.

If you're claiming a Child Tax Credit or Earned Income Tax Credit on your 2024 tax returns, you may get your refund later in the season than other filers — even if you filed first. Here's why.

As tax season kicks off, understanding the nuances of the child tax credit can help you better manage your expectations for your refund.