Millions of Americans search for information about their tax refunds every year, and unfortunately, much of what they find online is inaccurate or misleading. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the official and secure process for tracking your federal tax refund, helping you understand exactly what to expect and how to avoid common pitfalls.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) provides only two official and secure methods for tracking your federal refund: the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on the official IRS website and the IRS2Go mobile application. It is strongly discouraged to use third-party websites or services that request your personal information, as these can expose you to identity theft and tax-related scams.
Security Alert: Protecting Yourself from IRS Refund Scams
Before you begin tracking your refund, it is essential to be aware of the prevalence of IRS refund scams. Criminals often impersonate the IRS through emails, text messages, and phone calls, attempting to steal your personal and financial information. The IRS has made it clear that they will never initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text, or social media to request personal or financial information.
If you receive any unsolicited communication claiming to be from the IRS, do not click on any links, open any attachments, or provide any personal data. You can report phishing attempts directly to the IRS. Using only the official tools mentioned in this guide is the best way to protect yourself.
IRS2Go: The Official Mobile App
The IRS2Go app is the official mobile application of the IRS. It provides the same refund status information as the “Where’s My Refund?” website but in a convenient, on-the-go format. The app is free to download and is available on the App Store (iOS), Google Play (Android), and Amazon. In addition to checking your refund status, you can use the app to make payments, find free tax preparation assistance, and access helpful tax tips.
What You Need to Check Your Refund Status (Pre-requisites)
To successfully check your refund status using the “Where’s My Refund?” tool, you must have three specific pieces of information ready. The data you enter must match exactly what is on your tax return, as detailed on the official IRS page about the tool:
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN): This is the primary identifier the IRS uses to locate your return.
- Your Filing Status: This must be the exact status you selected on your return (Single, Married Filing Jointly, Married Filing Separately, Head of Household, or Qualifying Surviving Spouse).
- The Exact Refund Amount: You must enter the precise dollar amount of the refund you claimed, as shown on your tax return.
Many users get stuck at this step because they cannot remember the exact refund amount or have lost their tax return documents. This is a common frustration.
If you don’t know the exact amount or have lost your tax return, [click here to read our guide on how to recover your data and AGI].
Return Received: This status means the IRS has received your tax return and it has entered the processing queue. This is typically the longest stage of the process. During this time, the IRS is checking your return for mathematical errors, verifying your identity, and screening for potential fraud. Do not be alarmed if your status stays here for a while.
Refund Approved: This indicates that your refund has been approved and a deposit date has been scheduled. It is important to remember that “Approved” does not mean the money is already in your bank account. It simply means the IRS has finished processing your return and has scheduled a specific date to send your refund.
Refund Sent: This final status means your refund has been officially sent. For direct deposits, the funds have been transmitted to your bank; for paper checks, the check has been mailed. If you chose direct deposit and the funds are not in your account within 5 business days of the “sent” date, you should first contact your financial institution. If they have no record of the deposit, you should then contact the IRS.
Understanding the “3 Bars” of Refund Status
Once you successfully enter your information, the “Where’s My Refund?” tool will display your refund’s progress through three distinct stages, often represented as bars or steps. The meaning of these statuses is explained in the IRS’s frequently asked questions:
Timelines and Potential Delays (Setting Realistic Expectations)
The IRS states that most refunds are issued in less than 21 calendar days for returns that are e-filed and have no issues. However, this is an estimate, not a guarantee. Several factors can cause your refund to be delayed.
The PATH Act: EITC and ACTC Refund Delays
If you claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), your refund will be delayed by law. The Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act of 2015 requires the IRS to hold the entire refund for returns claiming these credits until mid-February. This gives the IRS additional time to detect and prevent fraudulent claims, as explained on the official IRS page for EITC/ACTC refunds.
If you file early and claim these credits, you can generally expect your refund by early March, provided you file electronically, choose direct deposit, and there are no other issues with your return.
EIf you realized you made a mistake on your return, the process for tracking your refund changes significantly. [See here how to track an Amended Return].
Troubleshooting: What to Do If Something Goes Wrong
If your refund is taking longer than expected, the first step is always to check the “Where’s My Refund?” tool for any updates or messages. The IRS updates this tool once daily, usually overnight, so there is no need to check more than once a day.
When to Call the IRS
The IRS asks that you do not call about your refund status unless it has been more than 21 days since you e-filed your return, or more than 6 weeks since you mailed a paper return. If you need to call, you can find the correct number and tips for service on the IRS’s Telephone Assistance page [5]. The official number for individual tax refund inquiries is 800-829-1040. Be prepared for extremely long wait times, especially during the peak tax season.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only. All content is based on public official information from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and State Revenue Departments. We are not financial advisors, accountants, or lawyers. For specific cases, consult a licensed professional or official government channels (.gov).
References
[1] Internal Revenue Service. “Refunds.” https://www.irs.gov/refunds
[2] Internal Revenue Service. “About Where’s My Refund.” https://www.irs.gov/refunds/about-wheres-my-refund
[3] Internal Revenue Service. “Tax Season Refund Frequently Asked Questions.” https://www.irs.gov/refunds/tax-season-refund-frequently-asked-questions
[4] Internal Revenue Service. “When to expect your refund if you claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit.” https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit/when-to-expect-your-refund-if-you-claimed-the-earned-income-tax-credit-or-additional-child-tax-credit
[5] Internal Revenue Service. “Telephone Assistance.” https://www.irs.gov/help/telephone-assistance