Your Step-By-Step Guide to Staying Informed About Your Tax Return
Learn how to track the status of your tax return using IRS tools, mobile apps, and professional guidance. Stay informed to avoid delays and plan with confidence.
How to Track Your Tax Return Status
Understanding the status of your tax return provides peace of mind and supports accurate financial planning. The IRS offers user-friendly tools that allow individuals to check the status of their federal tax return within 24 hours of e-filing or about four weeks after mailing a paper return. Here’s how to stay updated:
For Individual Tax Returns:
Step 1: Gather Your Information
To check your return status, you’ll need:
- Your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number
(ITIN)
- Your filing status (e.g., single, married filing jointly, etc.)
- The exact refund amount listed on your return
Step 2: Use the “Where’s My Refund?” Tool
Visit the
Where’s My Refund? tool on the IRS website. This tool is updated once daily, usually overnight, so you only need to check once a day.
Step 3: Download the IRS2Go App
For even more convenience, download the
IRS2Go app to your mobile device. This official app of the IRS lets you check your refund status, make a payment, and find free tax preparation assistance.
Understanding Your Tax Return Status
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- Return Received: This means the IRS has received your tax return and is currently processing it.
-
- Refund Approved: The IRS has processed your return, and your refund is being prepared. A direct deposit date or check mail date will be provided.
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- Refund Sent: Your refund has been sent to your bank via direct deposit or mailed as a check to the address on your return.
If more than 21 days have passed since you e-filed, or more than 6 weeks since you mailed your paper return, and you have not received your refund, contact the IRS directly for assistance.
For Small Business and Corporate Tax Returns:
Unlike individual taxpayers, small businesses and corporations do not have a centralized IRS tool for tracking tax return status. Due to the complexity of these filings, we strongly recommend working with a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), such as those at Tax Ace. A CPA can:
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- Track the progress of your return through professional channels
- Provide updates on refund status or correspondence
- Ensure compliance with changing tax laws
Key Takeaways
- Individuals can track their tax return status using the IRS online tools (Where’s My Refund?) and the IRS2Go mobile app.
- Tracking helps prevent delays and supports better financial planning.
- Small businesses and corporations should work with a Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
to manage filings and updates.
- Staying informed throughout the tax process is essential for avoiding issues and
maintaining financial goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon can I check the status of my tax return?
You can check your federal tax return status within 24 hours after e-filing or about four weeks
after mailing a paper return.
How often should I check the “Where’s My Refund?” tool?
The tool is updated once per day, typically overnight. Checking more than once a day will not
provide new information.
What is the IRS2Go app?
IRS2Go is the official mobile app from the IRS. It allows you to check your refund status,
make payments, and access free tax help.
What should I do if I haven’t received my refund?
If it has been more than 21 days since you e-filed or over six weeks since mailing your return,
contact the IRS directly for assistance.
Can businesses track their tax returns online like individuals?
No, businesses and corporations do not have a centralized IRS tracking tool. They should
work with a CPA to monitor filings and get updates.
