Filing a return with a refund owed does not mean instant payment. The Spanish Tax Agency (AEAT) has six months from the end of the filing window (30 June 2026) to issue the refund without paying interest. In practice, most taxpayers receive their money much earlier, but it pays to understand the real timelines and how to track the status.
Typical timelines based on when you file
AEAT starts issuing refunds a few days after the campaign opens. The sooner you file, the sooner the deposit lands — as long as nothing triggers a review.
| Filing time | Typical payment window |
|---|---|
| First week (8–14 April) | 3 to 10 days |
| All of April | 2 to 4 weeks |
| May | 4 to 8 weeks |
| June | 6 to 12 weeks |
| Returns under review | Up to 6 months |
Note on timelines
Timelines are indicative and based on previous campaigns. Returns with employment income from a single payer and no additional deductions are typically processed within days.
How to check the status on the AEAT portal
- Log in to the AEAT e-Office using Cl@ve, a digital certificate or your reference number.
- Go to "Renta 2025" → "Available services".
- Select "Refund status inquiry".
- You'll see the current state and, where applicable, the payment issue date.
You can also check it from the AEAT mobile app (iOS and Android) without navigating the web portal.
Possible statuses and what they mean
- "Your return is being processed" — it's in the queue, no issues detected.
- "Your return has been recorded and is being verified" — automatic cross-checking of third-party data (payroll, withholdings, declared deductions).
- "Your refund was issued on XX/XX/XXXX" — the transfer has been ordered; it usually lands in your account within 1–3 business days.
- "Your return is being verified" with no updates for weeks — may indicate manual review. Check your electronic notifications inbox.
- "Return not on file" — the return didn't go through properly; you'll need to file it again.
What to do if it takes longer than six months
If six months pass from 30 June (i.e. 31 December 2026) and the refund has not been issued, AEAT must pay statutory interest for delay at the current legal interest rate, automatically calculated on the outstanding amount.
You don't need to request it: the Agency calculates and adds it to the payment. If the refund extends well beyond that threshold, consider filing a formal inquiry letter through the e-Office.
Common reasons for delays
- Data that doesn't match third-party reports: withholdings declared differ from those reported by employers or banks.
- Regional deductions without supporting documents: some Autonomous Communities require evidence AEAT may request before paying.
- First year as a self-employed professional: these are often subject to manual verification.
- Changes in bank account from the previous year: check the IBAN is correct — a mistake blocks the transfer.
- Supplementary or corrective returns from prior years still in progress: can delay the current year's refund.
If you owe money instead of getting a refund
The schedule is different: payment is due when filing (or in two instalments if split). See our 2025 tax campaign guide for instalment and direct-debit details.