If your tax return has been accepted and you're expecting a refund, you can check its status directly with the IRS or your state tax agency.
Keep in mind that tax refunds are issued by the IRS and state tax departments, not by your tax preparation software provider. Once a return has been accepted, refund processing and payment timelines are controlled by the tax authority handling your return.
Before checking your refund status online or by phone, have the following information ready:
- The primary Social Security number listed on the return
- Your filing status (Single, Married Filing Jointly, Married Filing Separately, Head of Household, etc.)
- The refund amount shown on your accepted tax return
How to Check Your Federal Tax Refund Status
The fastest way to check your federal refund is through the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool. This secure online service allows you to track the progress of your return and see whether your refund has been approved or sent.
You can also check your federal refund status by calling the IRS Refund Hotline at 1-800-829-1954.
What if I'm not getting a refund?
If you owe federal taxes instead of receiving a refund, you can still track your return's processing status through the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool. When prompted for a refund amount, enter $1 to access processing information.
The IRS Doesn't Show My Return. What Should I Do?
It's common for the IRS to show your return as received and processing before a refund date becomes available. Processing times vary, especially during peak filing season.
If you can't find your return, try the following:
- Check your tax account and email notifications to confirm the return was accepted. If the return was rejected, you'll need to correct the issue and resubmit it.
- If your IRS account does not display the return, it may still be processing. Check the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool for the most up-to-date status.
- If your tax software shows the return was accepted but the IRS has no record of it, contact the IRS and provide your Submission ID. You can typically find the Submission ID in your account under the return details section.
- If the IRS confirms they did not receive the return, you may need to print and mail a copy. Once an electronically filed return has been accepted, it generally cannot be retransmitted electronically.
How to Check Your State Tax Refund Status
Most state tax agencies offer online refund tracking tools similar to the IRS "Where's My Refund?" system.
To check your state refund status:
- Visit your state's tax agency website.
- Locate the refund status or refund tracker page.
- Enter the requested information, which usually includes your Social Security number, filing status, and refund amount.
Some states also provide automated phone systems for refund status updates. If available, the phone number will typically be listed on the state's refund status webpage.
Important Reminder About Refund Processing
The IRS and state tax agencies process and issue all tax refunds directly. Once your return has been accepted, refund approval, timing, and payment are entirely controlled by the tax authority handling your return.
If your refund is delayed, checking the IRS or state refund tracker is usually the quickest way to find the latest status and identify whether any additional action is needed.