Waiting for your IRS tax refund can feel stressful, especially when you’re counting on that money for expenses, savings, or investments. The positive side is the IRS offers reliable tools to monitor your refund status in real-time.
In this comprehensive guide,we go through and explain precisely how to check your IRS refund status step-by-step and what each status signifies and what you should do if the refund has been delayed.
How Much Time Does It Take to Receive the IRS Refund?
Before you check your refund status, it’s crucial to know the IRS timeframes:
- Returns filed electronically: Refunds are typically made within 21 days of filing.
- Paper-filed returns: Can be delayed by 6-8 weeks, or even longer.
- Amended returns: Takes up to 20 weeks or longer
Delays could be due to issues with identification verification, documents that are not in the system or IRS process of review.
What You Need to Know Before Verifying Your Refund Status
To check the IRS tax refund status, keep these items in your possession:
- Social Security Number (SSN) or ITIN
- Status of filing (Single or Married Filing Jointly.)
- The exact amount of your refund shown in your tax filing
If you make a mistake, it could stop the system from finding your refund.
Step-by-Step Instructions on how to Check the Status on your IRS tax refund’s status Online
Step 1: Visit the IRS “Where’s My Tax Refund?” Tool
Visit the official IRS refund tracker, which is known as “Where’s my refund?” This is the most efficient and accurate method to verify your refund.
Step 2: Fill in Your Tax Information
Give you your SSN and ITIN number, the filing status and the exact amount of your refund as it was filed.
Select the tax year when you filed your return (for instance, Tax Year 2025 filed in 2026 or Tax Year 2024 filed in 2025).
The proper tax year is crucial. Selecting the wrong tax year will stop the system from finding your tax refund
Step 3: View Your Refund Status
After submission, the system will show the following three options:
- Return Received: IRS has received your tax return and is working on it
- Refund Approved: Your reimbursement has been approved and scheduled
- Refund Sent: Your refund has been issued (direct transfer or mailed check)
For a detailed explanation and visual walkthrough, please click to watch the video, it provides additional insights and clarifies each step discussed.
How to check your IRS Refund Status using the IRS2Go App
The IRS also offers a mobile option:
Steps:
- Download the IRS2Go application from either the App Store or Google Play
- Select “Refund Status“
- Input the tax information you need to be included.
This tool provides exactly the same information as the tool online and makes it convenient for mobile users.
Understanding IRS Refund Status Messages
Return received: Your tax return is being processed. There is no action to take until your IRS calls you.
Refund Approved: The refund is confirmed. Direct deposits usually show up within five days.
Refund Sent: The IRS has issued your refund. Allow extra time for the delivery in case of a mailed check.
Why is my refund from the IRS Delay?
The most frequent reasons for delay in refunds can be attributed to:
- Incorrect or missing information in your tax return
- Identification verification requirements
- Claiming credits, such as Child Tax Credit or Earned Income Tax Credit
- The filing of an amended tax return
- IRS processing backlogs
If the refund you received is delayed past the normal timeframe, it is suggested to have a professional review.
When to contact an IRS or a CPA?
It is recommended to seek assistance for:
- The status of your refund hasn’t been updated for more than 21 days
- The IRS asks for additional documents.
- Your refund amount is not the same as what you had hoped for.
- You receive notices or letters from the IRS.
- You are concerned about identity or other errors
How Parr & Ibarra CPA Can Assist?
At Parr & Ibarra CPA in Keller, Texas, we provide support for families, individuals and business owners in:
- IRS Refund tracking and Resolution
- Corrections to errors and modified returns
- IRS notices and letters
- Tax compliance & planning
- Identity verification assistance
Our aim is to ensure that the refund process is completed accurately and quickly, with no unnecessary stress.
Final Thoughts
Verifying the status of your IRS return status is easy as long as you follow the proper steps and know what each update signifies. While a lot of refunds are processed promptly but delays and difficulties are not unheard of. If they do happen it is important to have a trustworthy CPA on your side that can make an enormous difference.
