When Will the 2026 Korean Income Tax Refund Be Paid?
The 2026 comprehensive income tax filing season is for 2025 income. If your return results in a refund, the most common question is simple: when will the money arrive? In many ordinary cases, the refund is paid about 30 days after filing, but the exact timing depends on when you submit the return and whether the refund account is already registered.
Main 2026 income tax refund schedule
| Item | Expected timing |
|---|---|
| Filing and payment period | May 1 to May 31, 2026 |
| Taxpayers subject to faithful filing confirmation | Until June 30, 2026 |
| Refund deposit after filing | Usually within about 30 days |
| If filed in early May | Early to mid-June is commonly expected |
| If filed near the end of May | Late June to early July may be more realistic |
| Unclaimed refund or one-click refund application | Often 3 to 7 business days after application |
How to receive the refund faster
The simplest way to speed up the process is to file as early as possible once the filing window opens on May 1. If many taxpayers file right before the May 31 deadline, processing may slow down. It is also important to register or confirm your refund bank account in advance.
How to check your refund date directly
- Log in to Hometax at hometax.go.kr.
- Open the inquiry or issuance menu and choose the detailed refund inquiry page.
- In the Sontax mobile app, use the inquiry tab and check the detailed refund status.
- Check the processing status of your tax return. When it changes to refund payment, the deposit often follows within a few days.
Why a refund may be delayed
- No refund account is registered, so the payment may switch to a mailed check process.
- The return has an error or missing information and needs additional review.
- The return was filed near the end of May, when processing volume is high.
- The case is selected for additional tax-office review.
Practical takeaway
If you want the refund as early as possible, prepare your login method and refund bank account before May 1, then file early rather than waiting until the deadline. After filing, check the refund status through Hometax or Sontax instead of guessing from other people’s deposit dates.
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