The 2023 tax season kicks off on January 23, and most taxpayers have already sent their returns even before April 18, and the extended deadline is October 16.
Those who submitted earlier are eagerly waiting for their refund. But is there a way to check to status?
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) launched the “Where’s My Refund?” web tool to help taxpayers track their tax refunds. Taxpayers can also use other alternative applications, such as IRS2Go mobile app.
The web tool and app will update 24 hours after e-filling and four weeks after filing a paper return. Taxpayers can also check the status of their 2020 and 2021 tax returns, which would appear three or four days after filing. Verify reports the information on tax refund status is updated overnight or once a day.
Some individual tax filing services also offer services that allow their clients to check the status of their refund. For instance, taxpayers who filed with H&R Block can use the company’s website.
You can check the status of your tax refund through the “Where’s My Refund?” web tool and the IRS2Go mobile app. (Photo: GOBankingRates)
Also Read: 2023 Tax Season: VITA and TCE – Free Tax Help for Filing Tax Return
How to Check the Status of your Tax Refund?
To find your refund, you need your Social Security or taxpayer ID number, filing status, and the exact refund amount on your return.
The tracker then displays the progress through three stages: Return Receive, Return Approved, and Refund Sent.
According to USA.gov, refunds are usually issued within 21 days of e-filing a tax return, but those who filed a paper return might have to wait longer. The IRS says paper returns may take four weeks or more.
See: Behind the Delay: Top 5 Reasons for Late Tax Payments
In most cases, taxpayers would see the status of their refund moving from stage to stage within those 21 days without any issue. However, some might run into problems along the way. The IRS gives the following advice in different situations:
- You filed a paper refund more than six months ago and are due for a refund, but the tracker, says the agency never received it:
You should resubmit your tax return electronically. However, you should only do this if you have met all those conditions, as filing the same refund again could lead to further delays if the agency gets both.
- The return is stuck in the processing
Your return might be delayed due to a mistake, missing information, or suspicion of identity theft or fraud. The IRS usually fixes it without contacting you, but they will send you a letter if they need more information. Depending on your response time and accuracy, these issues can be resolved within 120 days or more.
- The IRS sent your refund back, but you never received it
If it has been more than 28 days from the date the IRS mailed your refund, but you never received it, you can file an online replacement for a replacement check. The tracker on “Where’s My Refund?” and the IRS2Go app will post detailed information on how to file a claim.
Aside from the above mentioned tools, you can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. However, you might have to wait longer to speak to a reprehensive. You can also use the automated phone system and follow the message prompts when you call.
Read More: How Long Will It Take to Claim Tax Refund?
