To check the status of your IRS tax refund, you can use the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool available on the IRS website. You will need the following information to use the tool:
- Your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
- Your filing status (e.g., single, married filing jointly)
- The exact refund amount shown on your tax return
The refund status information is updated once a day, usually overnight. You can typically see your refund status:
- About 24 hours after e-filing a current-year return
- 3 to 4 days after e-filing a prior-year return
- About 4 weeks after filing a paper return
The tool will show your refund status as one of the following:
- Return Received: The IRS has received your return and is processing it.
- Refund Approved: Your refund has been approved and is being prepared for issuance.
- Refund Sent: The refund has been sent to your bank or mailed to you. It may take 5 days to appear in your bank account or several weeks if mailed as a check
You can also check your refund status using the IRS2Go mobile app, which provides the same information. If your refund is delayed, it could be due to corrections or extra review needed on your return. The IRS will send you a letter if they need more information. Avoid calling the IRS unless the "Where's My Refund?" tool advises you to do so
. If you suspect your refund was deposited into the wrong account or there are other issues, you can contact the IRS or your financial institution for assistance. In some cases, you may need to file Form 3911 to initiate a trace on your refund
. In summary, the fastest and easiest way to find out where your IRS refund is:
- Use the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool online or the IRS2Go app
- Have your SSN/ITIN, filing status, and refund amount ready
- Check once a day for updates
- Contact the IRS only if advised by the tool or if you have specific issues
