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IRS provides easy access to tax refund status with "Where’s My Refund?" tool; no need to call



The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers that the Where's My Refund? tool on IRS.gov is the most convenient way to check the status of 2022, 2021 and 2020 tax refunds. IRS2Go, the mobile app, offers another way for users to check their refund status.

Information for the most current tax year filed is generally available within 24 hours after the IRS acknowledges receipt of a taxpayer's e-filed return. If they filed a paper return, taxpayers should allow four weeks before checking the status.


To use Where's My Refund?, taxpayers must enter their Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification number, filing status and the exact whole dollar amount of their expected refund from the original tax return for the year they're checking.

The IRS updates the tool once a day, usually overnight, so there's no need to check more often. This prevents individuals from having to contact the IRS for updates unless the tool requests them to call.


Where's My Refund? displays progress through three phases:

  1. Return Received.

  2. Refund Approved.

  3. Refund Sent.

Taxpayers will get personalized refund information based on the status of their tax return. The tool will provide an actual refund date once the IRS processes the return and approves the refund.


The fastest way to get a refund is by filing electronically and using direct deposit. Taxpayers who don't have a bank account can find out how to open a bank account at a FDIC-insured bank or the National Credit Union Locator Tool.


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