You can check the status of your federal tax refund using the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool online. To use it, you need:
- Your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
- Your filing status
- The exact refund amount shown on your tax return
The tool updates once a day, typically overnight, and shows your refund status as one of the following: Return Received, Refund Approved, or Refund Sent. Refunds are generally issued within 21 days of electronically filing your return, though paper returns take longer. If your refund is delayed, the IRS will send you a letter explaining why
. You can also check your refund status via the IRS2Go mobile app or by calling the IRS automated refund hotline at 800-829-1954
. If you filed your return recently, wait at least 24 hours after e-filing (or longer if you filed a paper return) before checking. Avoid filing a second return unless advised by the IRS, as this can cause delays
. In summary, the fastest and easiest way to find out where your federal tax refund is right now is to use the IRS "Where's My Refund?" online tool or mobile app with your SSN/ITIN, filing status, and refund amount ready
