At a glance
- Check status 24 hours after your return is e-filed
- The IRS tool updates once a day, usually overnight
- Refunds with the EITC or Additional Child Tax Credit come after mid-February
- Direct deposit is the fastest way to get paid
How to check
- Go to the IRS Where's My Refund page or open the IRS2Go app.
- Enter your Social Security number or ITIN, your filing status and your exact refund amount in whole dollars.
- You'll see one of three stages: Return Received, Refund Approved, or Refund Sent.
What can slow a refund down?
- Claiming the EITC or Additional Child Tax Credit (held by law until mid-February)
- Mistakes, missing information or a name and SSN that don't match
- Identity verification letters from the IRS
- Past-due debts such as child support, state taxes or federal student loans, which can be taken from your refund
- Paper returns or paper checks
Calling the IRS
The IRS asks taxpayers not to call unless it has been more than 21 days since e-filing, or the tool tells you to contact them. Call me first; I can often see what's happening and help you respond.
Watch out for scams: the IRS doesn't contact you by text, email or social media about your refund. If someone asks for payment or personal information to release a refund, don't respond. Call me.
Want to be sure you get every credit?
Book a free 15-minute call. I'll check which credits fit your family before you file.
Schedule your free callOfficial IRS sources: IRS: Where's My Refund ↗ · IRS: Tax season refund FAQs ↗
Updated for 2026 returns filed in 2027. General information only, not tax advice for your situation. Rules and amounts can change; your eligibility is confirmed when your return is prepared.
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