Check Status of a Tax Refund in Minutes

Jon McGraw • March 7, 2018

This article provided by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Check Status of a Tax Refund in Minutes Using Where’s My Refund?

The Where’s My Refund? tool gives taxpayers access to their tax return and refund status anytime. All they need is internet access and three pieces of information:

  • Their Social Security number.
  • Their filing status.
  • The exact whole dollar amount of their refund.

Taxpayers can start checking on the status of their return within 24 hours after the IRS received their e-filed return, or four weeks after they mail a paper return. Where’s My Refund? includes a tracker that displays progress through three stages: the IRS receives the tax return, then approves the refund, and sends the refund.

Where’s My Refund? updates once every 24 hours, usually overnight. Taxpayers should remember that checking the status more often will not produce new results. Taxpayers on the go can track their return and refund status on their mobile devices using the free IRS2Go app. Those who file an amended return should check out the Where’s My Amended Return? tool.

Generally, the IRS issues most refunds in less than 21 days, but some may take longer. IRS phone and walk-in representatives can research the status of refunds only if it’s been 21 days or more since a taxpayer filed electronically, or more than six weeks since they mailed a paper return. Taxpayers can also contact the IRS if Where’s My Refund? directs them to do so.

There is a misconception that a tax transcript can help taxpayers determine the status of their refund. The information included on a transcript does not necessarily reflect the amount or timing of a refund. Transcripts are best used to validate past income and tax filing status for loan applications, and to help with tax preparation.

Share this tip on social media — #IRSTaxTip:Check Status of a Tax Refund in Minutes Using Where’s My Refund? https://go.usa.gov/xnuCu

Recent Buttonwood Articles


A clock on a desk with a pen and notepad.
By Mitch Gasbarro February 19, 2025
As tax season approaches, it's crucial to get organized and prepared. Whether you're working with a tax professional or handling your taxes on your own, a little planning can go a long way in making the process smoother and avoiding costly mistakes.
Buttonwood Advisor reviewing year-end tax strategies
By Vince Pastorino December 4, 2024
As you gear up for a busy holiday season, year-end tax strategies tend to take a back seat, right? We get it, and we’re here to provide a summary of helpful year-end tax tips that are simple to implement!
Buttonwood Investment Policy Committee Update
By Kyle Hogan November 18, 2024
In our September rebalance for nontaxable assets, we adopted a cautiously optimistic stance, decreasing risk slightly due to election uncertainties.
Buttonwood Financial Group Investment Policy Committee Update
By Kyle Hogan October 8, 2024
After the stock market rally in the first half of the year and amidst the uncertainty of the upcoming election, for assets without tax implications, we are reducing risk by trimming some of the overweight for our active positions.
Two people on a sailboat enjoying retirement after implementing the Mega Backdoor Roth IRA strategy
By Mitchell Smith August 20, 2024
The Mega Backdoor Roth strategy allows individuals to contribute to both a Roth IRA and a Roth 401(k), then add a third Roth component to their savings. In this update we share what you need to know about this strategy, and how to work through the details to implement.
Roll of
By Jon McGraw July 19, 2024
As the 2024 election season heats up in the U.S. it’s natural for us humans to feel a sense of unease. But here is something to remember: fixating on sensational headlines can be detrimental to your financial well-being.

Are you ready to explore the benefits of your very own Family CFO?

LET'S TALK

Buttonwood Services


About Buttonwood Financial Group


Share by: