Where to check your tax return status

The IRS offers three ways to check where your return stands: the IRS website tool called "Where's My Refund?", the IRS2Go mobile app, or a phone call to the IRS. The website tool is fastest and works 24 hours a day. You will need your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact refund amount from your return to use it.

"Where's My Refund?" updates once per day, usually overnight. If you filed electronically, the tool typically shows a status within 24 hours of the IRS receiving your return. If you mailed a paper return, it takes longer — the IRS must first scan and process it before the tool recognizes it.

The IRS2Go app offers the same information as the website but works on your phone. You can read it from the Apple App Store or Google Play. The phone number for IRS customer service is 1-800-829-1040, though wait times are often long during tax season.

Key Takeaways

  • The IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool on IRS.gov is the fastest way to check your return status and updates once daily.
  • You need your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact refund amount to use the status checker.
  • Electronic returns show up in the system within 24 hours; paper returns take longer because they must be scanned first.
  • If the tool says "still being processed" after 21 days for an e-filed return or 6 weeks for a paper return, contact the IRS by phone or mail.

What the status messages mean

"Return received" means the IRS has your return but has not started reviewing it yet. This is normal and happens right after filing. You will see this status for a few days.

"Still being processed" means the IRS is reviewing your return for errors or missing information. Most returns move through this stage within 21 days if you filed electronically, or within 6 weeks if you mailed it. If your return stays in this status longer, it may need additional review or you may have made an error on the form.

"Approved" means the IRS has finished reviewing your return and accepted it. If you are owed a refund, the next status will show when the money is being sent. If you owe taxes, you will see payment instructions instead.

"Refund sent" means the IRS has released your refund to the bank or payment method you listed. The tool will show the date the refund was sent and the method (direct deposit or check). Direct deposits usually arrive within one to two business days; checks take 7 to 10 business days from the send date.

How long the IRS takes to process returns

The IRS aims to process most returns within 21 days if you file electronically. Paper returns take longer because they must be manually scanned and entered into the system — the IRS typically processes these within 6 weeks, though it can take longer during peak tax season.

Some returns take longer than the standard timeframe. The IRS may need to verify information on your return, review deductions you claimed, or check for errors. If you claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), the law requires the IRS to hold your return until mid-February, even if it is otherwise complete. This is called the EITC holding period and applies every year.

Returns that include amended information, corrections from prior years, or unusual deductions may also take extra time. The IRS will contact you by mail if they need more information from you.

What to do if your return is delayed

If your return has been in "still being processed" status for more than 21 days (for e-filed returns) or 6 weeks (for paper returns), you can contact the IRS. Call 1-800-829-1040 during business hours, or visit an IRS office in person. Have your Social Security number, filing status, and the refund amount ready.

The IRS may ask you to verify information on your return or provide documents you did not include with your filing. Common reasons for delays include a mismatch between your name and Social Security number, missing or incorrect information on a dependent, or an error in your income or deduction amounts.

If the IRS finds an error, they will send you a notice by mail explaining what they found and what you need to do. Do not ignore these notices — they include a important date for you to respond, usually 30 days. If you disagree with what the IRS found, you can respond in writing with documentation to support your position.

Checking status by mail or phone

If you do not have internet access, you can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 to check your return status. You will need your Social Security number, filing status, and the refund amount. Wait times are longest from mid-February through April, so calling early in the tax season or after mid-May is faster.

You can also mail a written request to the IRS. Include a copy of your return, your Social Security number, and the tax year you are asking about. Mail it to the IRS office that serves your state. The IRS website lists the correct address for each state. This method takes several weeks, so it is slower than calling or using the online tool.

When your refund arrives

Once the IRS approves your return and sends your refund, the arrival time depends on how you chose to receive it. If you selected direct deposit to your bank account, the money usually arrives within one to two business days after the IRS sends it. If you chose a check by mail, allow 7 to 10 business days from the send date.

The "Where's My Refund?" tool will show you the exact date the IRS sent your refund and the method. If your refund does not arrive by the date shown plus the expected delivery time, contact your bank (for direct deposit) or the IRS (for a check). The IRS can issue a replacement check or investigate a missing direct deposit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does "Where's My Refund?" say my return is still being processed after 3 weeks?

The IRS processes most e-filed returns within 21 days, but some take longer. If you claimed the EITC or ACTC, the law requires a delay until mid-February. If you did not claim these credits and your return is still processing after 21 days, the IRS may be verifying information or reviewing deductions. Check back in a few days or contact the IRS if it has been more than 21 days.

Can I check my status if I filed a joint return with my spouse?

Yes. Use either spouse's Social Security number to check the status. The return status is the same for both of you since you filed together. If you need to speak with the IRS, either spouse can call, but you will need the refund amount and filing status from the return.

What if the tool says my refund was sent but I have not received it?

For direct deposit, wait one to two business days after the send date shown in the tool. If it does not arrive, contact your bank to confirm the account number on file with the IRS is correct. For a check, wait 7 to 10 business days. If you still have not received it, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 to request a trace or replacement.

Do I need to create an account to use "Where's My Refund?"

No. The tool does not require a login or account. You enter your Social Security number, filing status, and refund amount each time you check. This keeps the tool straightforward and fast.

Can I check the status of a return I filed last year?

The "Where's My Refund?" tool only shows current-year returns. For prior-year returns, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 or visit an IRS office. Have your Social Security number and the tax year ready.