When to expect your tax refund from the IRS and how to check the status

In most cases, you can expect to receive your refund up three or 4 weeks after you file. However, in some cases, the IRS may need more time to process your return, which could cause delays in you getting your refund. For instance, if your tax return needs to be reviewed or corrected, your refund may not arrive within the quoted 21-day-window. The IRS will send you a letter if this occurs. In addition, the IRS states that amended returns take about 3 weeks just to show up in their system, and up to 16 weeks to be processed.

Regardless of your filing method, the IRS does not want you to call them to inquire about your refund status. They aren’t able provide a refund status update on the phone. Use the below guide to determine when you can expect to receive your refund and when and where you can start checking your refund status.

Tax Refund Info by Return Type

E-file (Current Year)
When to expect your refund: 21 days
When to start checking the refund status tool: 24 hours after filing
Where to check refund status: https://www.irs.gov/wheres-my-refund

E-file (Prior Year)
When to expect your refund: 21 days
When to start checking the refund status tool: 3 or 4 days after filing
Where to check refund status: https://www.irs.gov/wheres-my-refund

Amended or Mailed Returns
When to expect your refund: 4+ weeks
When to start checking the refund status tool: 4 weeks after filing
Where to check refund status: https://www.irs.gov/filing/wheres-my-amended-return

Returns Requiring Corrections or Extra Review
When to expect your refund: More than 4 weeks
When to start checking the refund status tool: 4 weeks after filing
Where to check refund status: https://www.irs.gov/wheres-my-refund