How to Check Your IRS Refund Status

You've filed your tax return and now you are waiting for your IRS refund. Waiting for the IRS to send you money can feel like an eternity especially if you are entitled to a large refund. There are several ways you can check the status of your IRS refund and give yourself peace of mind that your money is on its way.

Internet

One way to check the status of your IRS refund is to go directly to the IRS website. On their front page, click on the link that says, "Where's My Refund?" In order to check the status of your refund through this website, you will need your or your spouse's social security number, filing status and the whole dollar amount of your expected refund.

The status of your IRS refund will be available 72 hours after you e-file your tax return or 3 to 4 weeks if you sent your tax return via mail. This website is updated every Wednesday if there is a change in the status of your refund.

Phone

If you do not have access to the internet, the IRS offers an automated phone system that allows you to check your refund status anytime of the day or night in Spanish or English. You can call the IRS Refund Hotline at 1-800-829-1954 or the IRS TeleTax system at 1-800-829-4477. 

In order to use the phone system you will need your or your spouse's social security number, your filing status, and the expected dollar amount of your tax refund. 

Smartphone Application

Most recently the IRS unveiled the IRS2Go app for Android and Apple smartphones. The app can be downloaded for free from the Apple App Store or the Android Marketplace. 

To check your status with the smartphone application, you will need to provide your or your spouse's social security number, your filing status and the expected dollar amount of your tax refund.