Federal Tax Refund Status Information

For many, filing an annual tax return is only the beginning. After that, the wait for the refund begins. Whether a taxpayer files a return electronically or by mail, the IRS provides updates on the status of refunds both online and by automated message through the phone. With some basic information from a return, the IRS can tell a taxpayer exactly when a refund will be deposited into an account (if direct deposit was chosen) or when a check was mailed.

Information required to check refund status

To check your refund status, a taxpayer needs the primary social security number or tax identification number listed on the return, the filing status (single, married, and so on), and the whole dollar amount of the refund.

Refund status online

IRS.gov offers free online status updates of refunds beginning 72 hours after a tax return is accepted by the IRS electronically or three to four weeks if a return is filed by mail. Once a social security number, filing status, and refund amount have been entered, the IRS provides an estimated date for a refund deposit into an account or the mailing of a check.

Refund status by phone

A taxpayer's refund status is also available by phone by calling the IRS refund hotline at [phone]. The taxpayer will have to enter the same information required to check refund status online and a date of deposit or mailing will be provided.

Problems receiving your refund

If the IRS is not able to provide a refund status or a refund does not arrive, a taxpayer can request a refund trace via the IRS website. A taxpayer can also change her mailing address for a check online (if the taxpayer moves after a return was filed) or call [phone] for live help on any issue.

Refund scams

The IRS warns taxpayers against emails that appear to be from the IRS regarding their return or refund; these are scams attempting to steal personal information. The IRS never initiates emails to taxpayers for any reason.

References

• IRS.gov: Where's My Refund?