To check the status of your federal tax refund, you can use the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool available on the IRS website. You will need the following information:
- 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
The refund status is typically available about 24 hours after you e-file your current-year return, 3-4 days after e-filing a prior-year return, or about 4 weeks after filing a paper return
. The "Where's My Refund?" tool shows three main status stages:
- Return Received: Your return has been received and is being processed
- Refund Approved: Your refund has been approved and is being prepared for issuance
- Refund Sent: Your refund has been sent to your bank or mailed to you; it may take several days to appear in your account or weeks for a mailed check
You can also check your refund status using the IRS2Go mobile app or by calling the IRS automated refund hotline at 800-829-1954
. If your refund is delayed, it may be due to corrections or extra review of your return, or because your refund was applied to outstanding debts. The IRS will send you a letter if they need more information
. In summary, the fastest and easiest way to find out where your federal refund is is to use the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool online or through the IRS2Go app with your SSN/ITIN, filing status, and refund amount ready
