You can check the status of your IRS tax refund using the official IRS tool called "Where's My Refund?" available on IRS.gov. Here’s what you need and how it works:
How to Check Your Refund Status
- Visit the IRS "Where's My Refund?" page on IRS.gov or use the IRS2Go mobile app.
- You will need:
- Your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
- Your filing status (e.g., single, married filing jointly)
- The exact whole dollar amount of your expected refund from your tax return
When You Can Check
- For e-filed current-year returns, your refund status is usually available about 24 hours after the IRS receives your return.
- For e-filed prior-year returns, expect about 3 to 4 days.
- For paper returns, it may take about 4 weeks before the status is available.
Refund Status Stages
The tool shows your refund progress in three stages:
- Return Received: IRS has your return and is processing it.
- Refund Approved: Your refund has been approved and is being prepared.
- Refund Sent: The refund has been sent to your bank or mailed as a check.
Timing for Refunds
- Most e-filed refunds are issued within 21 days.
- Paper returns and amended returns take longer-usually 4 weeks or more.
- Delays may occur if your return requires corrections or extra review.
Additional Tips
- Filing electronically and choosing direct deposit is the fastest way to get your refund.
- If your refund is delayed or less than expected, the IRS will send a letter explaining why.
- For amended returns, check status after about 3 weeks; processing can take 8 to 12 weeks.
- Avoid filing duplicate returns as it can cause delays.
You can also call the IRS for refund inquiries, but the online tool is faster and updated daily, usually overnight
. In summary, to check your refund status, go to IRS.gov’s "Where's My Refund?" tool, have your tax info ready, and check after the appropriate time based on how you filed your return.
