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
- The exact refund amount shown on your tax return
The refund status is typically available:
- About 24 hours after you e-file a current-year return
- 3 to 4 days after e-filing a prior-year return
- Up to 4 weeks after filing a paper return
The tool updates once daily, usually overnight, and will show statuses such as "Return Received," "Refund Approved," or "Refund Sent." After the refund is sent, it can take up to 5 days to appear in your bank account or several weeks if sent by mail
. If your refund is delayed, it may be due to corrections, extra review, or if the IRS needs more information, in which case they will send you a letter
. For state tax refunds, each state typically has its own "Where's My Refund?" tool or phone system. For example, Illinois, Virginia, Iowa, and Colorado provide online tools and phone numbers to check state refund status and handle issues like lost or missing checks
. If you do not have internet access, you can call the IRS automated refund hotline at 800-829-1954 for federal refund status
. In summary, visit the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool online with your tax details for the fastest update on your refund status. For state refunds, check your state's department of revenue website or contact them directly.
