How Can I Track Down My State Refund?

You many need to contact your state's Department of Revenue to check on your state refund.

As April approaches, so does the promise of a tax refund for many people. The Internet and programs like Turbo Tax has made doing a yearly return so much easier, especially since there are new deductions every year that will impact both your federal and state refund. However, complications do arise, and sometimes a tax refund check can become unduly delayed. When that occurs, there are ways you find out the fate of your check or direct deposit.

Things You'll Need

• Tax filing status
• State tax refund amount
• Social security number

Instructions

1. Open the the tax preparation software that was used. Double check all of the payment options. Were they selected correctly? If the receiving bank's information was incorrectly entered, then the whole tax refund may have stalled in processing. If you haven't filled out the bank information at all, it may be too late and the state may be issuing you a check, not an electronics funds transfer.

2. Locate the debit card and check book that was used to fill out the bank information. In some tax prep programs, you have to fill it out twice, once for federal and once for a state refund. In some cases, users fill out the federal section and forget about their state taxes. The information has to be filled out twice because the money comes from two different sources. The IRS has no baring or payment authority on a state refund. Double check to make sure you completed information regarding how you want to receive your state refund.

3. Open your online banking check to see if your state refund check has been deposited. Sometimes, a bank will differentiate between a pending deposit and an actual deposit. Pending deposits have yet to occur, and so the balance of the deposit may not be showing as available.

4. Double check the incoming postal mail. However, if the state is issuing a check, even if by mistake, it will take weeks for it arrive. Refunds via postal mail always take longer. However, you should also double check your mailing address specified on your tax return because checks will go to that address.

5. Open up a search engine and locate the site for the state's Department of Revenue. If the check or the electronic transfer never showed, the state's department of revenue may provide help. However, all states treat tax issues differently. There should be an easily accessible frequently asked questions page. Near the top, there is almost a "Where is my refund" section. Follow the instructions listed there.

References

• Smart on Money:Where Can I Check My State Income Tax Return Refund Status