Oregon starts sending tax refunds and ‘kicker’ payments to electronic filers; those submitting paper returns will have to wait until April.

Oregon Department of Revenue Begins Tax Refunds for 2025

The Oregon Department of Revenue has shared that over 500,000 e-filed tax returns have already been processed, and refunds for the 2025 tax year are now being mailed out.

Most taxpayers can expect their refunds within two weeks of filing. That said, some returns might need further review, which could delay the refund process for up to 20 weeks.

Additionally, Oregon plans to distribute a $1.41 billion revenue “kicker” to taxpayers in 2026. This kicker can either increase the refunds taxpayers receive or lower the state taxes they owe.

To qualify for the kicker, taxpayers must have submitted returns for both the 2024 and 2025 tax years. The kicker credit is based on a percentage of the Oregon personal income tax owed from the 2024 tax year. Taxpayers can check the amount using the “What’s my kicker? Calculator” available at Revenue Online.

The department strongly recommends that taxpayers file electronically. Typically, those who e-file and opt for direct deposit see their refunds in about two weeks.

However, paper filers will likely experience longer wait times in 2026 due to processing backlogs. The agency noted that delays from the IRS in providing necessary tax form information to Oregon’s Department of Revenue contributed to this situation.

Consequently, processing for paper-filed returns won’t commence until late March, and the first refunds from those filings are not expected until April.

Taxpayers wishing to track their e-filed refunds can use the tools provided by the department. It’s advisable to wait a week after filing electronically before checking the status. Paper returns won’t show up in the system until processing starts in late March. For those mailing returns, a wait of two weeks after processing starts—or after submitting the returns, whichever is later—will be necessary.

The tools available through the department have been updated for 2026 to enhance clarity regarding filing status for those with Revenue Online accounts. Individuals without an account can still utilize the “Where’s My Refund?” tool but will miss out on some updated features.

A video explaining the refund process and timeline is also accessible for taxpayers looking for more understanding.

Taxpayers should only file their returns once unless modifications are needed. They need to choose between electronic or paper filing; doing both will only slow down the processing.

Besides checking refund statuses, taxpayers can visit the department’s website for payment options and to find tax forms. Any inquiries can be directed via email.

For assistance, taxpayers can call the toll-free number from any Oregon prefix or reach out from outside the Salem area. The department also accommodates relay calls for hearing or speech-impaired individuals.