How to Check Your Tax Refund Status: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve filed your taxes and are now eagerly awaiting your tax refund, you’re not alone. Knowing the status of your tax refund can help ease your mind and plan for what’s next. At JW Professional Services, we understand the importance of timely refunds, and we're here to guide you through the process of checking your tax refund status.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to check your refund status, what could delay it, and how to stay informed throughout the process. We’ll also cover key information about how tax refund processing works so you know exactly what to expect.

1. Start by Gathering Your Information

Before checking your tax refund status, ensure you have all the necessary details at hand. You will need:

  • Your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
  • Your filing status (Single, Married Filing Jointly, etc.)
  • The exact amount of your expected refund

These details are required to accurately access your refund status. Having this information ready will streamline the process and save you time.

2. Check Your Refund Status Online

The quickest and most efficient way to check your tax refund status is by using the IRS’s "Where's My Refund?" tool, available on the IRS website. Here’s how you can use it:

  • Visit the IRS website and navigate to the “Where’s My Refund?” page.
  • Enter your SSN or ITIN, filing status, and the exact refund amount.
  • Click "Submit" and the system will show you your refund status.

This tool is updated once a day, typically overnight, and will provide the most accurate and current information regarding your refund. You can check the status of your tax refund from the moment your return is accepted to when your refund is issued.

3. Check Your Refund Status Using the IRS2Go Mobile App

For those who prefer using a mobile device, the IRS2Go app provides the same functionality as the online “Where’s My Refund?” tool. Available for both iOS and Android, the app allows you to check your refund status, track your tax refund, and receive updates on any changes to your refund status.

4. What Do the Status Updates Mean?

Once you access your tax refund status, you may encounter one of several status updates. These are the most common:

  • Accepted: Your return has been received and is being processed. This is a good sign that the IRS is actively working on your return.
  • Refund Approved: Your refund has been processed and is ready to be issued. This is when you can expect to receive your refund.
  • Refund Sent: The IRS has issued your refund. You should receive it within a few days, depending on your selected refund method (direct deposit or check).
  • Rejected: If your return has been rejected, it means there was an issue with your submission (e.g., incorrect information or a mismatch with the IRS records). You’ll need to correct the issue and resubmit your return.

5. Why Might Your Refund Be Delayed?

While checking your refund status online is a great way to track progress, there are a few reasons why your refund might be delayed. Some common causes include:

  • Errors on Your Tax Return: Mistakes, such as incorrect information or missing documents, can cause delays.
  • Fraud Prevention: The IRS may flag your return for review to prevent fraudulent activity, especially if there are discrepancies or suspicious patterns.
  • Filing with Paper Forms: Paper tax returns take longer to process than electronically filed returns. If you filed a paper return, it may take several weeks longer to receive your refund.
  • Complex Returns: If your tax situation is more complex, such as claiming certain credits or deductions, it can take longer to process your refund.
  • Backlog at the IRS: Occasionally, the IRS faces backlogs due to high filing volumes, especially around peak times. This can cause processing delays.

6. What to Do If You Haven’t Received Your Refund Yet

If it’s been longer than 21 days since you filed your return (for e-filed returns), and you haven’t received your refund, don’t panic. Here are a few steps to take:

  • Review Your Status: Use the IRS’s online tools to check if there are any updates or actions required on your part.
  • Contact the IRS: If the online tools haven’t resolved your issue, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. Be prepared to provide your tax details for verification.
  • Consult Your Tax Preparer: If you worked with a tax professional, reach out to them for guidance. They can assist you in understanding your refund status and help resolve any issues with the IRS.

7. Choosing Direct Deposit for Faster Refunds

To avoid delays, we always recommend opting for direct deposit when filing your tax return. Direct deposit is the fastest method for receiving your refund, and it eliminates the risk of postal delays. With direct deposit, your refund is sent directly to your bank account, and you’ll receive it in a matter of days once it’s approved.

8. Stay Up-to-Date with Notifications

The IRS offers notifications through their tools and mobile apps that provide updates on your refund status. Make sure you check your email and mobile notifications regularly for any changes or required actions regarding your refund.

Conclusion

Tracking your tax refund status is an essential part of managing your financial situation during tax season. While it’s always a relief to receive your tax refund, understanding the steps to check your status and what could be causing any delays will give you peace of mind. At JW Professional Services, we’re dedicated to ensuring that your tax filing process is as smooth and efficient as possible. If you have questions or need assistance with your tax return or refund status, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Whether you're checking the status of your refund or need expert tax advice, our team is ready to assist you. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you maximize your tax return and ensure a smooth filing experience.

Back to blog