Where’s My Refund? How to Check The Status of Your 2018 Tax Refund

Taxpayers dread filing their taxes.  But as soon as they find out they are owed money by the government, they ask “Where’s My Refund?”.   Now, taxpayers can start checking on the status of their return within 24 hours after e-filing. For a paper mail return, it takes up to 4 weeks.  We recommend that e-filing is the best way to go and to according to our review Turbo Tax is the best tax prep software.

How to Check Your Tax Refund

The Where’s My Refund? tool gives US taxpayers access to their tax returns and the status of their refunds at anytime. However, you will need internet access and three pieces of information:

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

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.

The Where’s My Refund application updates once every night.  Just remember that checking will not produce the returns any faster or change the amount that you are due.  And if you were wondering, there is an app for that.  Taxpayers can track their return and refund status using the free IRS2Go app. For amended returns, you should check out the Where’s My Amended Return? tool.

Generally, the IRS issues most refunds in about 3 weeks.  Some may take longer.  If you call the IRS or talk to a walk-in rep they can research the status of refund, provided it’s been 21 days or more.  Those without Internet access can access this tool by calling 800-829-1954, 24 hours a day.