How to Track Your 2024 IRS Tax Refund Status
The IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool is the fastest way to check the status of your federal tax refund in 2024. The agency updates the tracker once per day, usually overnight. You can start checking your refund status 24 hours after e-filing your return and four weeks after mailing a paper return.
To check on your refund status, you’ll need to have three items prepared: your Social Security number (or individual taxpayer identification number), filing status and the amount of money due back to you as a refund.
The tracker will display where in the process your return is — return acceptance, refund approval, or refund sent. If there is a delay or an issue with your return, the tracker may ask you to provide more information or contact the IRS.
To access the IRS refund tracker for federal tax refunds, click here: Where’s My Refund?
You can also check the status of your refund on your smartphone by downloading the IRS’ mobile app, IRS2go, or by calling the agency’s automated refund hotline at 800-829-1954.
Refund Timelines
| Filing Method | Refund Timeline |
|---|---|
| E-file | 21 days |
| Paper return | 4+ weeks |
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If you submitted a 2021 or 2022 tax return, you can typically see your refund status on the “Where’s My Refund?” tool three to four days after e-filing. If you need to check the status of your amended return, there’s a different tracker for that.
The IRS does not have an official tax refund calendar or schedule, but it does provide basic guidelines for when you might expect your refund. Taxpayers who e-file an error-free 2023 tax return can expect their refund within 21 days, per the IRS. Paper returns submitted by mail may require more processing time, which can delay refunds by four or more weeks.
For a general idea of when you might expect your refund, use the tax refund estimator on NerdWallet’s website. Keep in mind that the IRS deposit dates will vary based on how and when you file your taxes.
If you’re wondering where your state tax refund is, most states have their own refund trackers. You can find your state’s tax refund tracker on NerdWallet’s website.
The IRS typically accepts tax returns within 24 hours of e-filing. Once the agency accepts your return, you can begin to track your refund — but keep in mind that the IRS updates the “Where’s My Refund?” tool only once per day, usually overnight.