Track My Refund: How to Check Your 2024 Tax Refund Status
Track your tax refund easily with the IRS's “Where’s My Refund?” tool or your state’s tracker. E-file and direct deposit speed things up, often within 21 days. Avoid delays by double-checking your return for errors and opting for electronic filing. Find state-specific links here!
Photo by Kelly Sikkema / Unsplash
When you’re waiting for your tax refund, every day can feel like a week, right? It’s totally normal to want to know where your money is and when it’ll finally hit your bank account. The good news is that you don’t have to sit around guessing. The IRS and many state tax agencies offer handy online tools that let you track the status of your return and see when your refund might arrive.
Below, you’ll find out how to check on your federal tax refund, get some tips for timing, and find easy links to track your state tax refund, too.
How to Track Your Federal Tax Refund
Where’s My Refund?: This is the go-to online tracker from the IRS. It updates once a day—usually overnight—so you won’t need to check it constantly. If you filed your return electronically, you can start checking 24 hours after the IRS accepts it. Mailed a paper return? You’ll need to wait about four weeks before checking.
To get started, you’ll need:
- Your Social Security number (or ITIN)
- Your filing status (single, married filing jointly, etc.)
- The exact amount of your expected refund
Just head over to the Where’s My Refund? tool on the IRS site or use the IRS2Go mobile app. The tracker will show you whether your return is still being processed, if the refund has been approved, or if it’s already been sent. If there’s a delay or issue, the tool may prompt you for more info or direct you to contact the IRS.
E-File and Direct Deposit = Faster Refunds: Generally, if you e-file and choose direct deposit, you could see that money within about 21 days. Paper returns or choosing a mailed check can add extra weeks to the process.
Need to Check an Amended Return? The IRS has a separate tool for that, called “Where’s My Amended Return?” Keep in mind, amended returns can take longer to process.
2024 Tax Refund Timing
The IRS doesn’t provide an official calendar, but here’s a rough idea:
| Filing Method | Refund Delivery Method | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| E-file | Direct deposit | ~21 days |
| E-file | Check by mail | ~21 days + mailing time |
| Mail a return | Direct deposit | ~4 weeks or longer |
| Mail a return | Check by mail | ~4 weeks + mailing time |
If the IRS accepted your return, you can start watching the “Where’s My Refund?” tracker after about a day (for e-filed returns). If it’s been more than three weeks since you e-filed (or six weeks since mailing) with no updates, consider calling the IRS for guidance.
Why Your Refund Might Be Delayed
Common reasons for delays:
- Errors on your return (like a misspelled name, wrong Social Security number, or incorrect direct deposit details).
- Additional IRS review, which might happen if something on your return requires a closer look.
- Early filers who claim certain credits (like the Earned Income Tax Credit) must wait until mid-February by law.
If you don’t have any updates after three weeks (e-file) or six weeks (mail), and the IRS tracker isn’t showing new info, try calling the IRS’s main hotline at 800-829-1040.
Where’s My State Refund?
Just like the feds, most states have their own “Where’s My Refund?” pages. Click on your state below to check your refund status directly. Keep in mind that processing times vary by state, and you’ll typically need your Social Security number, filing status, and expected refund amount to log in.
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- District of Columbia (D.C.)
- Georgia
- Hawaii (Refund Status tool may be on website)
- Idaho (Check “Refund Status” on site)
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa (Refund Status tool may be on website)
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana (Check “Where’s My Refund” tool on site)
- Maine (Check refund status on state portal)
- Maryland
- Massachusetts (Check “Where’s My Refund” on DOR site)
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana (Search for “Where’s My Refund” on site)
- Nebraska
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island (Check “Refund Status” on site)
- South Carolina
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- West Virginia (Check for refund status)
- Wisconsin
No state income tax? If you live in Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, or Wyoming, you don’t owe state income tax, so there’s no refund tracker needed. New Hampshire taxes certain dividends and interest, but not regular earned income.
Tips for Getting Your Refund Sooner
1. File Electronically: Filing a paper return can delay your refund by weeks. Going digital is faster and easier.
2. Use Direct Deposit: Requesting direct deposit gets your refund into your account quicker than waiting for a check in the mail.
3. Keep an Eye Out for Errors: Double-check your personal info before submitting. Simple typos or incorrect numbers can cause delays.
4. Adjust Your Withholding If You’re Getting a Huge Refund: If you end up with a big tax refund every year, that might mean you’re paying too much in taxes from each paycheck. Consider adjusting your W-4 so you take home more money throughout the year, rather than waiting until tax time to get it back.
Quick facts
How do I track my IRS refund check?
You can track your federal tax refund using the IRS "Where’s My Refund?" tool at https://www.irs.gov/refunds or by using the IRS2Go mobile app. You’ll need your Social Security number (or ITIN), filing status, and the exact amount of your expected refund.
How long does an IRS refund take now?
Most IRS refunds are issued within 21 days if you e-file and opt for direct deposit. Mailed returns or choosing a paper check can add several weeks to your wait time.
Where’s my state refund pa tracker?
Pennsylvania residents can check their refund status via the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue’s website at https://www.revenue.pa.gov/Pages/default.aspx. You’ll typically need your Social Security number and the amount of your anticipated refund.
Where is my IRS refund phone number?
You can call the IRS's automated refund hotline at 1-800-829-1954. For general tax assistance and to speak with someone, try calling the IRS main line at 1-800-829-1040.
How do I speak to a live person at IRS?
To speak with a live representative, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. Follow the automated prompts that direct you to individual tax return inquiries, and be prepared for longer wait times during peak seasons.
Why is my refund taking so long?
Common delays happen if your return contains errors, is incomplete, or needs additional review. Early filers who claimed certain credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit, may also experience processing holds.
What day of the week does the IRS deposit refunds?
The IRS issues direct deposits on most business days, typically Monday through Friday. There’s no specific day of the week guaranteed for all taxpayers.
Where is my in-refund?
If you’re referring to your tax refund’s status, the best way to find out is through the "Where’s My Refund?" tool at https://www.irs.gov/refunds. Simply enter your Social Security number, filing status, and exact refund amount.
Are IRS refunds delayed?
Some refunds may be delayed if the IRS must correct errors, verify information, or if you claimed credits that require additional review. While many refunds process within 21 days, certain situations can extend that timeframe.
How long can the IRS legally take to process your refund?
The IRS generally issues most refunds within 21 days for e-filed returns without errors. If it’s been more than 21 days (for e-filed returns) or 6 weeks (for mailed returns) with no updates on the "Where’s My Refund?" tool, consider contacting the IRS for guidance.
Why can’t I track my refund?
You might be checking too soon. If you e-filed, wait at least 24 hours after the IRS accepts your return. Double-check that you entered your Social Security number, filing status, and exact refund amount correctly. If you still can’t track it, the IRS may not have processed your return yet.
How do I know if my tax return has been flagged?
If your return is flagged for review, the IRS may request additional information by mail. Your refund status on "Where’s My Refund?" may prompt you to call the IRS, or you might notice a delay beyond the typical timeframe without updates.
Why is my refund still being processed?
Your refund could still be processing if the IRS needs more time to review your return, verify certain details, or correct minor errors. Continue checking the "Where’s My Refund?" tool for updates.
What if I made a mistake on my tax return?
If you made an error, you can file an amended return using Form 1040-X. Keep in mind that amended returns can take longer to process. The IRS may also correct simple math errors for you, which can alter your refund amount.
Can I tell the IRS what account to put my tax refund in?
Yes. When you file, you can provide your bank’s routing number and your account number for direct deposit. You can even split your refund across multiple accounts, including checking, savings, or retirement accounts.
What could happen to my tax refund if I owe back taxes?
If you owe back taxes or certain other debts (like child support or student loans), the IRS can apply your refund to those debts first. They will send you a notice explaining why your refund was reduced.
Geoff Abraham
Co-founder & President of Spoken
Geoff is the co-founder and President of Spoken. He is a Dad. He holds a BA from UT Austin (Plan II) and an MBA from Stanford. Geoff has built several successful businesses, including a bicycle taxi business in San Francisco which he ran for 10 years with his wife, Mimosa. He is an executive coach, and he actively invests in seed-stage startups via The Explorer Fund.
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