Once a taxpayer files their tax return, they want to know when they’ll receive their refund. The most convenient way to check on a tax refund is by using the Where’s My Refund? Tool on IRS.gov.
Taxpayers can start checking their refund status within 24 hours after the IRS acknowledges receipt of the taxpayer’s e-filed return. The tool also provides a personalized refund date after the return is processed and a refund is approved.
Taxpayers can access the Where’s My Refund? tool two ways:
• Visiting IRS.gov
• Downloading the IRS2Go app
To use the tool, taxpayers will need:
• Their Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification number
• Tax filing status
• The exact amount of the refund claimed on their tax return
The tool shows progress in three phases:
• Return received
• Refund approved
• Refund sent
When the status changes to approved, this means the IRS is preparing to send the refund as a direct deposit to the taxpayer’s bank account or directly to the taxpayer in the mail, by check, to the address used on their tax return.
The IRS updates the Where’s My Refund? tool once a day, usually overnight, so taxpayers don’t need to check the status more often.
Taxpayers allow time for their bank or credit union to post the refund to their account or for it to be delivered by mail. Calling the IRS won’t speed up a tax refund.