Things to Know when Checking the Status of your Tax Refund » March 5, 2010

Are you expecting a tax refund from the Internal Revenue Service this year?  If so, here are some things you should know once you have filed your federal tax return:

1. Online Access to Refund Information.  “Where’s My Refund?” is an interactive tool on IRS.gov and the fastest, easiest way to get information about your federal refund.  Where’s My Refund? gives you online access to your refund information nearly 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  It’s quick, easy and secure.

2. When to Check Refund Status.  If you e-file, you can get refund information 72 hours after the IRS acknowledges receipt of your return.  Information on paper returns will generally be available 3-4 weeks after mailing your return.

3. What You Need to Check Refund Status.  Have your federal tax return handy.  To get your personalized refund information you must enter:

- Your Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.

- Your filing status.

- Exact whole dollar refund amount shown on your tax return.

4. What the Online Tool will Tell You. Once you enter your personal information, you could get several responses, including:

- Acknowledgment that your return was received and is in processing.

- The mailing date or direct deposit date of your refund.

- Notice that the IRS could not deliver your refund due to an incorrect address.

5. Customized Information.  Where’s My Refund also includes links to customized information based on your specific situation.  These links will guide you through the steps to resolve any issues affecting your refund.

6. Visually Impaired Taxpayers.  Where’s My Refund is also accessible to taxpayers who use the Job Access with Speech screen reader used with a Braille display and is compatible with different JAWS modes.

7. Toll-free Number.  If you do not have internet access, you can check the status of your refund by calling the IRS Refund Hotline at 800-829-1954 or the IRS Tele Tax System at 800-829-4477.  When calling, you must provide Social Security number, filing status and the exact whole dollar refund amount shown on your return.

Refund checks are normally sent out weekly on Fridays.  If you check the status of your refund and are not given the date it will be issued, please wait until the next week before checking back.