How to Track Your Federal Tax Refund
After you file your 2023 federal tax return, you’ll likely want to get a tax refund if you overpaid on taxes last year. Luckily, the IRS makes it easy to check the status of your refund online . Additionally, compared to recent history, the IRS says it is well positioned to issue more than 9 out of 10 refunds in less than 21 days. Here’s everything you need to know to track your 2023 federal tax refund.
How to Track Your Federal Tax Refund
Please wait at least 24 hours after submitting your application.
The IRS takes time to process your tax return, so you’ll have to be patient before checking the status of your refund. If you file your return electronically, you can check it as soon as 24 hours after the IRS receives your tax return. For a paper return, you will have to wait at least four weeks before checking.
Prepare your information
To check the status of your refund, you’ll need to provide your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), filing status (single, married, etc.), and the exact refund amount you’re expecting.
Use the IRS2Go app or the IRS.gov website.
The IRS offers a mobile app called IRS2Go and an online refund tracking tool . Both allow you to check the status of your federal tax refund.
In the IRS2Go app, click “Return Status” and enter your information. At irs.gov/refunds, click “ Check the status of my refund .”
Understand the meaning of return status
The IRS provides a return status that explains where your return is in the process:
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Return received: The return is being processed.
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Refund Approved: The refund has been approved and is in the queue for payment.
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Refund Sent: Refund has been sent.
Also check your return date if your return has been approved to get the expected deposit or shipping date.
Be patient for refund
Most tax refunds are issued by the IRS within 21 days. However, the IRS says refund times may vary depending on volume. Requesting a refund via direct deposit is faster than waiting for a paper check.
What should I do if more than 21 days have passed?
Do not file a second tax return. If more than 21 days have passed since you filed electronically, the IRS recommends that you call them. The question “Where is my refund?” the tracker will also prompt you to call the IRS if necessary.
Unfortunately, calling the IRS is not always an easy or reliable solution. Once you decide to call the IRS, here’s our guide to increase your chances of getting to the real person on the other end of the line .