If you've filed your taxes and are expecting a refund, you're probably wondering when you'll receive it. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers several options for checking your tax refund status, but many taxpayers aren't aware of them. In this article, we'll explain how to check your IRS refund status and provide some tips to help you get your refund as quickly as possible.
What is IRS Refund Status?
How to Check Your IRS Refund Status
a. Online via the IRS Website
b. Using the IRS2Go Mobile App
c. By Phone
What Does Your IRS Refund Status Mean?
Tips for Getting Your IRS Refund Quickly
a. File Your Taxes Early
b. Use Direct Deposit
c. Avoid Errors on Your Tax Return
d. Respond Promptly to Any Requests from the IRS
IRS refund status is an important indicator of when you can expect to receive your tax refund. It tells you whether your return has been received, processed, and approved, and whether your refund has been sent. Here are three ways to check your IRS refund status:
Online via the IRS Website:
The easiest way to check your IRS refund status is to use the "Where's My Refund?" tool on the IRS website. You'll need to provide your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact amount of your expected refund. The tool will show you the status of your return and when you can expect to receive your refund.
Using the IRS2Go Mobile App:
The IRS also offers a mobile app called IRS2Go, which you can download for free on your smartphone. You can use the app to check your refund status and get tax updates from the IRS. To use the app, you'll need to provide your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact amount of your expected refund.
By Phone:
If you don't have internet access or prefer to check your refund status by phone, you can call the IRS Refund Hotline at 1-800-829-1954. You'll need to provide your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact amount of your expected refund.
It's important to understand what your IRS refund status means. Here are the three possible status messages you may receive:
Return Received: This means the IRS has received your tax return and is processing it.
Refund Approved: This means the IRS has processed your return and approved your refund.
Refund Sent: This means the IRS has sent your refund to your bank or by mail.
To get your refund as quickly as possible, here are some tips to follow:
File Your Taxes Early:
Filing your taxes early can help you get your refund faster, as the IRS processes returns on a first-come, first-served basis.
Use Direct Deposit:
Choosing direct deposit for your refund is the fastest way to receive it. Make sure you provide accurate banking information on your tax return.
Avoid Errors on Your Tax Return:
Errors on your tax return can delay the processing of your refund. Double-check your return for accuracy before submitting it.
Respond Promptly to Any Requests from the IRS:
If the IRS needs more information to process your return, they may send you a notice. Respond promptly to any requests to avoid delays.