You can check the status of your IRS tax refund using the official IRS tool called "Where's My Refund?" available on the IRS website. To use this tool, you need:
- Your Social Security number (SSN) or individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN)
- Your filing status
- The exact whole dollar amount of your expected refund as shown on your tax return
You can start checking your refund status:
- About 24 hours after you e-file a current-year return
- 3 to 4 days after you e-file a prior-year return
- About 4 weeks after you file a paper return
The tool shows your refund progress in three stages: Return Received, Refund Approved, and Refund Sent. It updates once a day, usually overnight. After the refund is sent, it may take an additional 2 to 5 days for the money to appear in your bank account if you chose direct deposit
. If you prefer, you can also check your refund status using the IRS2Go mobile app or by calling the IRS automated refund hotline at 800-829-1954
. Keep in mind that refunds typically take up to 21 days after e-filing to process, but some returns may take longer if they require additional review or corrections
