How to Check the Status of Your Tax Refund

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The information in this article is up to date for tax year 2023 (returns filed in 2024).

Wondering when you will receive your tax refund? It’s easy to find out!

Use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on the IRS website or the IRS2Go app to check your refund status. You will need the following:

• SSN or ITIN
• Your filing status
• The exact amount of the refund you are expecting

The IRS tool is updated on a daily basis, usually overnight, so there’s no need to check more often. Most refunds are issued within 21 days.

Pro Tip: Get an update on your refund ASAP by e-filing with a tax prep service like ezTaxReturn—simple returns can be filed in just 30 minutes and you will typically see your refund status updated within 24 hours. 

E-filing is also the fastest way to get your refund—select the direct deposit option to get your refund delivered right to your account within a few weeks.

If you have not filed your taxes yet, our DIY software can walk you through the process, step-by-step. File a FREE simple federal return on any device in 30 minutes or less. 

When can I check my refund status?

You can start tracking your refund 24 hours after your return has been both e-filed and accepted. However, if you mailed your tax return to the IRS, you’ll need to wait four weeks before checking your refund status. 

How long does it take to get a tax refund?

The IRS issues 9 out of 10 refunds within 21 days. Your return may take longer to be processed if it requires additional review by the IRS, or your filing gets audited.

Why is my tax refund delayed?

There are several things that can slow down your refund. Here are some reasons yours may be delayed:

• You chose to file a paper return
• You made a mistake or your return is incomplete
• The IRS suspects identity theft or fraud
• You claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit or an Additional Child Tax Credit
• Your return needs further review
• Your return included Form 8379, Injured Spouse Allocation which takes up to 14 weeks to be processed.

How do I check the refund status of an amended return?

If you need to make changes to your return after you filed it, you can file an amended return. 

To check the status of your refund on an amended return, use the IRS “Where’s My Amended Return?” tool on their website. 

You will need the following: 

• Social Security number
• Date of birth
• Your residential zip code

You can check the status of an amended return about 3 weeks after you submit it. Expect to wait up to 20 weeks for your return to be processed.

ezTaxReturn takes the guesswork out of filing taxes. Get your refund faster and start your FREE simple federal return today.

The articles and content published on this blog are provided for informational purposes only. The information presented is not intended to be, and should not be taken as, legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers are advised to seek appropriate professional guidance and conduct their own due diligence before making any decisions based on the information provided.