How to Find Your 2007 Tax Refund

Locating an old tax refund

If you filed a federal income tax return for 2007, but still have not received a refund you cannot use the Internal Revenue Service's online "Where's My Refund?" locator. It is available only for the past year's refund. If you recently filed a return for 2007, you may call the Internal Revenue Service's automated Refund Hotline by dialing 800-829-1954. If you have not yet filed, be aware that the statute of limitations in most instances is three years from the date your return was due. The deadline for a 2007 refund is April 15, 2011.

Things You'll Need

• Copy of 2007 federal income tax return
• Telephone

Instructions

Starting A Trace

1. Get out your old return. You will need the information from your return to help the Internal Revenue Service locate your refund.

2. Call the IRS. The easiest way to ensure you speak to the correct representative is to contact the main service center at 800-829-1040. Someone is available weekdays from 8 a.m.-10 p.m. for your local time zone.

3. Request a trace. If your refund was returned to the IRS by the U.S. Postal Service because it was undeliverable, or if the previously issued check has passed its two-year expiration date, the IRS may simply re-issue your refund. Otherwise, they will initiate the trace and research the status of your refund before sending you another check.

Tips & Warnings

• If you prefer, you may also go directly to your local Internal Revenue Service office. There is an office locator service available at the website listed in the resources.

• Protect your identity. Do not give out your tax information online, except at the IRS's secure encrypted website. The IRS does not initiate email conversations with taxpayers.

References

• IRS: Tax Topic 152 Refund Information
• IRS: "About Where's My Refund?"
• IRS: Help Yourself By Filing Past Due Returns

Resources

• IRS: Where's My Refund?
• IRS: Contact My Local Office