Refund status
Track your tax refund.
Check the official IRS tool, then read what each stage means.
Before you check
Three details from your return.
IRS “Where’s My Refund?” updates once a day, usually overnight. Have these ready.
- Social Security number or ITIN
The number used on the return you filed.
- Filing status
Single, married filing jointly, head of household, and so on.
- Exact refund amount
The whole-dollar amount shown on your return.
The tracker
Three stages on IRS.gov
Most refunds are issued within 21 days of e-filing.
- Return received
The IRS has your return and is processing it. This usually shows within 24 hours of e-filing.
- Refund approved
The amount is approved, and the IRS is preparing to send it to your bank.
- Refund sent
Funds are on the way, or a check is in the mail. A bank can take up to 5 days to post the deposit.
Why a refund can take longer
A few situations hold a return for a closer look.
- Errors or missing details
Math mistakes, a missing signature, or incomplete information go to a manual review.
- Identity checks
If the IRS suspects fraud, the refund stays on hold until they can confirm who you are.
- Paper returns
A mailed return often takes four weeks or longer. E-file is the faster path.
- EITC or additional child tax credit
By law, refunds that include these credits cannot be issued before mid-February.
Need help with your taxes?
If your refund has been delayed due to an audit or error, our expert CPAs can help resolve the issue with the IRS.