If you’ve already filed your tax return, you can track the status of your federal refund directly with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Once the IRS accepts your return, april can’t see updates or track your refund for you — the IRS is the source of truth.
You can usually start tracking your refund within 24 hours after your e-filed return is accepted.
How do I track my federal tax refund?
The fastest way to check your federal refund status is using the IRS Where’s My Refund tool.
To use it, you’ll need:
Your Social Security number or taxpayer identification number (ITIN)
Your filing status
The exact refund amount shown on your tax return
Your refund will move through three stages:
Return received (accepted) — the IRS has your return
Refund approved — the IRS has approved your refund
Refund sent — the IRS has issued your refund
As part of processing, the IRS may review your return for math errors or apply your refund to past-due federal or state debts.
When should I expect my refund?
The IRS issues most refunds within 21 days of accepting an e-filed return. However, some returns take longer to process.
Your refund may be delayed if you:
Mailed in your return
Filed an amended return
Claimed certain credits or adjustments
Filed using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
If you claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) and filed before February 15, the IRS typically releases refunds by February 27 if everything checks out and you chose direct deposit.
Can I check my refund by phone?
If you don’t have internet access, you can call the IRS refund hotline at 800-829-1954.
For amended return refunds, call 866-464-2050.
What if I don’t see any updates yet?
Wait at least 24 hours after your return is accepted before checking
For mailed returns, allow about 4 weeks before looking for updates
For prior-year returns, wait 3–4 days after filing before checking status
If it’s been more than 21 days since you e-filed, or over 6 months since you mailed your return, the IRS recommends checking the Where’s My Refund tool for next steps.
Important to know
Once your return is accepted, april can’t access refund timing or status details. If you have questions about where your refund is or why it hasn’t arrived yet, you’ll need to contact the IRS directly.
If you’re looking for help with state refunds, delays, or refunds sent to the wrong account, those topics are covered in separate articles so you can get the fastest answer possible.