How to Trace Lost and Stolen IRS Tax Refund Checks

Lost IRS Refund Checks

Individual taxpayers can easily get current tax refund status from the IRS. Taxpayers can be missing their refund checks due to many reasons, including because they moved and did not file for a change of address. The IRS refund tracing service is very important to track down if a federal tax refund check has been lost or stolen. If you haven't received a due refund check within four weeks from filing, use these steps to check on its status.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Have some personal information handy. In order to trace an individual's lost IRS tax refund check; you'll need the social security number, the filing status and the amount of the expected refund to the penny. This information is required by the IRS for security purposes and it is requested whether the status inquiry is done online or via the telephone.

2. Use the IRS "Where is My Refund" automated tool to track the refund check. By visiting the IRS.gov website individuals can enter their social security number, filing status and refund amount to check the refund status online. This tool does not provide status information for previous years' returns, only for the current tax year. Detailed information will be provided by the IRS on the status of your check.

3. Track the lost or stolen refund check by calling the IRS. The customer service number to track federal refund checks is 1-800-829-4477. Personal information such as social security number, filing status, refund amount and address will be requested.

4. File for a replacement IRS refund check. After using the automated IRS tool or making an inquiry by telephone individuals can request a replacement check for a lost or stolen refund. Information on how to request a replacement check online for a stolen or lost refund is provided only after completing the "Where is My Refund" inquiry. Alternatively, the IRS customer service telephone can also be used to file for a replacement refund check.

Tips & Warnings

• Allow four to five weeks from filing to start a lost or stolen IRS refund check replacement inquiry.