You can check the status of your federal tax refund using the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool available on the IRS website. To use it, 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 refund amount shown on your tax return
The tool typically shows your refund status about 24 hours after you e-file a current-year return, 3-4 days after e-filing a prior-year return, or about 4 weeks after filing a paper return. The status updates once daily, usually overnight
. The refund status will show one of these stages:
- Return Received: IRS has your return and is processing it
- Refund Approved: Refund has been approved and is being prepared for issuance
- Refund Sent: Refund has been sent to your bank or mailed as a check (may take 5 days or more to appear in your account or mail)
If your refund is delayed, it may be due to errors, additional review, or missing information. The IRS will send you a letter if they need more details
. Most refunds are issued within about 21 days of e-filing
. You can also check your refund status via the IRS2Go mobile app or by calling the IRS, but the online tool is the fastest and easiest way
. In summary, visit the IRS "Where's My Refund?" website, enter your SSN/ITIN, filing status, and refund amount to see where your federal refund is
