Where's My Refund? — IRS Refund Status Guide

Purpose

“Where’s My Refund” is an online tool (also available in the IRS2Go mobile app) that helps taxpayers check whether their tax return has been processed and the current status of their refund.

When Can You Check Status?

• After 24 hours if you e-filed the current year’s return.
• After 3–4 days if you e-filed a prior year’s return.
• After 4 weeks if you mailed a paper return.

Information You Need

1. Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
2. Filing Status (e.g., Single, Married Filing Jointly)
3. Exact refund amount from your tax return

Refund Status Stages

1. Return Received – Your return has been received and is being processed.
2. Refund Approved – Your refund has been approved and is being prepared for issue.
3. Refund Sent – Your refund has been sent to your bank account or mailed as a check.
   • Direct deposit may take up to 5 days to appear in your account.
   • Mailed checks may take several weeks to arrive.

Important Notes

• Do not file the same tax return again to speed up the refund; it can cause delays.
• File again only if:
  • You are due a refund,
  • You filed a paper return over 6 months ago, and
  • The tool does not show that IRS received your return.

When to Call IRS?

Only call the IRS if the “Where’s My Refund” tool specifically instructs you to do so.

Possible Refund Delays

• Errors in the return
• Additional review needed
• If required, the IRS will send you a letter by mail

In short, “Where’s My Refund” is a tracking tool for taxpayers and a useful reference for Enrolled Agents assisting their clients with refund inquiries.