How Do I Track My Refund from the IRS?

After filing your taxes, you will get a confirmation soon as you submit to let you know your request is being processed. There are several ways to track the status of your refund: you can check it online on the IRS website, by calling the IRS by phone, or in-person by visiting a local tax office near you. But, the most recommended way to check on your return, is by visiting the IRS website and using the "Where's My Refund" tool.

Adam Goldkamp is the editor / author responsible for this content.
Dec 9, 2022

If you would like to know how to track your refund from the IRS, this article can help. It has all the information needed to check the status of your refund and more.

Does the IRS Owe You Money?

In 2007, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) reported $1.1 billion in tax refunds that were unclaimed. You may be owed unclaimed tax money if you didn't file your taxes or if your taxes were filed improperly. Click here to speak to an IRS representative to learn more.

How to Check the Status of Your IRS Refund Online

There are many different ways to check your tax refund. The IRS recommends using a tool on their website called, "Where's My Refund?" to check your refund status. You will need to know your filing status, Social Security number, and the exact refund amount expected. After entering this information in the proper fields, click "Submit". A page will display your refund status.

Check Your Refund Status By Phone

If you can't access the internet to check on your refund status, contact the IRS by phone. You can call the IRS to check the status of your refund, for questions about your tax return, or for other information about your claim. Click here to contact the IRS now. For individuals, the lines are open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Check Your Refund Status In Person

There are many Taxpayer help Centers in town for those who prefer to speak to an IRS representative face to face to discuss their tax status and more. To find the one nearest you, use the "IRS Office Locator" found on the IRS official website.

Your Tax Returns

One way to reduce errors significantly when filing your taxes is to file electronically, which the IRS recommends. Also, the IRS no longer sends paper tax documents by mail to taxpayers, which helps save money. However, if you would rather file your tax return on paper, you can do so by obtaining the tax forms from the IRS website, at the library, or from other community sites.

Make Sure Your Taxes Were Filed Properly

To avoid any delays, after you filled out the forms and submitted them to file your taxes, always make sure they were done right and received, so you aren't waiting for nothing. This is especially important for those expecting a refund. There are a few ways you can verify your return was received and is being processed. If you filed your return with the IRS or through a third party, you will receive a confirmation letting you know your forms were accepted. If your form was not accepted, you will be contacted to let you know why. Check your email often for messages from the IRS and after waiting at least a week, check the IRS website tool, "Where's My Refund" to check the status of your return.

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Adam has been tirelessly trying to help customers find the best tips and tricks to get through phone trees and writing many guides for prickly customer service problems. He's been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Inside Edition and Bloomberg.
How Do I Track My Refund from the IRS?

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