If you’re wondering, “Where’s my tax refund?” – keep reading! Let’s get started!
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Finding out where your refund is doesn’t have to be a headache. Here’s how to check both your federal and state refunds, step by step.
Federal Refund
The IRS has your back with a simple online tool. Here’s what to do:
- Visit the IRS Website
Go to the “Where’s My Refund?” page. The information is updated every 24 hours — usually overnight — so you must check only once daily. You can use this tool to track your refund unless you file an amended return, but you cannot use it to track business refunds. - Have These Ready
- Your Social Security Number (or Taxpayer ID Number)
- Your filing status (like single or married filing jointly)
- The exact refund amount from your return (this is important – it needs to be precise)
- Type It In
Plug those details into the tool. If you e-filed, you’ll see an update within 24 hours. Mailed it? Give it about 4 weeks. You’ll see:- Received: They’ve got it and are reviewing it.
- Approved: It’s cleared—money’s coming soon!
- Sent: Check your bank or mailbox—it’s on the way.
- Use the App
On the go? Grab the IRS2Go app for the same info, phone-style.
How Long Does It Take?
E-filers usually see cash in 21 days or less. Paper filers, plan on 6-8 weeks. If you claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit, delays might push it to late March 2025 due to extra checks.
State Refund
Every state’s a little different, but it’s still easy:
- Find Your State’s Website
Search “[Your State] tax refund status” (like “Texas tax refund status”). Most states have a tracker. Examples:- California: Franchise Tax Board
- Florida: No state income tax, so no refund to track!
- What You Need
Usually, it is your Social Security Number and refund amount. Some states want your filing date, too. - Timing
Expect 4-12 weeks, depending on your state. E-filing cuts that time timeframe, the same as with federal.
Why is my tax refund taking so long?
Waiting longer than you’d like? Here’s what might be holding it up:
- A Mistake on Your Form: A wrong number or bad math can stall things. Triple-check before you send!
- Fraud Filters: In 2025, the IRS and states will use smarter tech to catch shady returns. If yours gets flagged, it’ll take extra time.
- Debt Grab: Owe money for loans, taxes, or support? They might swipe your refund to pay it off. Look for a notice in the mail.
- Paper vs. E-File: Mailing your return is slower than filing online, by quite a bit of time —e-file if you can for the quickest possible return.
With these steps, checking your refund is a breeze. File early, go electronic for the quickest refund, and track it to see where it’s at.
You can get more information from the IRS’ Frequently Asked Questions page about refunds.
The IRS cautions taxpayers to beware of scams in which crooks attempt to extract your personal information to steal your refund. The IRS will not send you an email asking for your Social Security number, bank account number or other information, nor will the agency send text messages asking for such information. You can read more about how to avoid tax refund and phishing scams here.
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