How to Check an IRS Tax Return
Every year the IRS requires millions of people to file income tax returns. Whether you are receiving a tax refund or having to pay additional taxes, you may want to check to see if the IRS has accepted or rejected your return. Because tax season is a hectic time of the year for the IRS and millions of tax returns are filed, there are several ways to check the status of your IRS tax return.
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Things You'll Need
- Computer with Internet access
- Telephone
- Tax preparer contact information
Instructions
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Check Status By Phone
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1
Call the IRS. A direct phone number to check the status of taxes can be reached by calling 1-800-829-1954. (See Reference 3.)
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2
Follow the prompts on the automated system. You will need to select option 1.
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3
Input the requested information. To check the status of your tax return, you will need your Social Security number, filing status and tax refund amount. If you are not receiving a tax refund or owe additional taxes, you will need to enter 0 for your tax refund amount. If your tax return has been approved and you are expecting a tax refund, the automated system will give you an estimated date that you will receive your refund.
Check Status of Tax Returns by Internet
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4
Visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov. (See Reference 1.)
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5
Click the Check Refund Status link on the left hand side of the page.
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6
Click on the link, Where's My Refund. You will need to input your Social Security number, filing status and refund amount. If you are not receiving a refund, you will enter 0 in this field.
Check Status of Return By Your Tax Preparer
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7
Contact your tax preparer. The individual or company filing your tax return will receive notification when your taxes are approved by the IRS.
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8
Visit the website that you used to prepare your taxes. If you used online tax services, such as TaxAct or TurboTax, you can visit their website online to check the status. There will be a link on their website for you to check the status. These services oftentimes email you when your tax return is accepted as well.
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9
Check your mail. You may receive a tax return acceptance letter from your tax preparer or tax service.
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