What’s the Status of My Tax Refund?
By Chrissy Speer
Waiting for a tax refund can be frustrating, especially when you aren't sure when the money will arrive. Fortunately, the IRS makes it easy to check your refund status online. See below for more details.
1) Use the IRS and/or State “Where’s My Refund?” Tool
The easiest way to check your federal tax refund is through the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool.
Check Your Refund Status — IRS “Where’s My Refund”?
To check your refund status, you’ll generally need:
Your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
Your filing status (such as Single, Married Filing Jointly, or Head of Household)
The exact refund amount shown on your tax return
For state/city refunds, check:
2) What Do the Different Statuses Mean?
The “Where’s My Refund?” tool generally provides one of three basic updates:
Return Received
The IRS has received your tax return and is processing it. This does not necessarily mean your refund has been approved yet.
Refund Approved
The IRS has finished processing your return and approved your refund. The tool may provide an expected refund date.
Refund Sent
The IRS has sent your refund. If you selected direct deposit, check your bank account. If you requested a paper check, allow additional time for delivery.
3) how long will it take to receive my refund?
The IRS says the typical timeframe is within 3 weeks for an e-filed return and 6 or more weeks for a mailed return. The U.S Government Accountability Office reported that the IRS sent about 4.2 million notices as of early May 2026 asking taxpayers for banking information so refunds could be issued electronically. Taxpayers who didn't respond could receive a paper check after a significantly longer wait.
Note corrections or additional review can delay a refund.
4) what if my refund is taking longer than expected?
There are several reasons a refund may take longer to process. Returns can require additional review, and certain tax credits can also affect the timing of a refund. If the IRS needs additional information from you, they may contact you by mail. Be sure to watch your mailbox and respond promptly to any IRS correspondence.
5) Can You Check My Refund Status?
Yes. Simply send us an email giving us permission to do so (dcdefrain@infinitywp.com).
This article is for general informational purposes only. Refund processing times are determined by the IRS and states and can vary based on individual circumstances.