You can check the status of your tax refund using the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool online. To use it, you need your Social Security Number or ITIN, your filing status, and the exact refund amount from your tax return. The tool updates once a day, usually overnight, and shows whether your return has been received, your refund approved, or your refund sent. Refunds are typically issued within about 3 weeks after filing electronically, but it may take longer for paper returns or if additional review is needed
. If you filed a state tax return, most states have their own "Where's My Refund?" tools on their revenue department websites where you can check your state refund status with similar information
. If your refund is delayed or you suspect an issue, the IRS will usually send a letter requesting more information. You should only call the IRS or state tax offices if the online tool advises you to do so or if it has been significantly longer than the typical processing times
. For lost or missing paper refund checks, states often have procedures to request a reissue by contacting their tax department or comptroller's office
