“Where’s My Refund?” is an online tool provided by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It lets taxpayers check the status of their federal tax refund. This IRS provides this tool in its efforts to offer taxpayers real-time information about the processing of their tax refunds. Where’s My Refund messages have often been vague. Changes are coming. Here is more information about how to use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool.
Changes to Where’s My Refund
The IRS plans to update the “Where’s My Refund?” online tool for the 2024 filing season. Where’s My Refund messages are getting an upgrade. Taxpayers will get more detailed information about the status of tax refunds. Currently, taxpayers only see just generic messages such as “Your tax return is still being processed”. This lack of of information causes concern, leaving taxpayers wondering if there is a problem. The changes aim to help taxpayers better understand the tax refund status better and reduce calls to customer service.
The comping clearer and more detailed updates will include messages such as one informing the taxpayer they need to respond to a letter for more information. The IRS aims to answer basic questions more effectively.
What’s New?
Here are some of the changes to expect from Where’s My Refund messages.
Current WMR message
Your tax return is still being processed. A refund date will be provided when available. For more information about processing delays, please see our Refund Frequently Asked Questions.
New WMR Messages
Example: To protect you from identity theft, your tax return is currently being reviewed. To help us process your return more quickly, verify your identity and tax return information. If you recently received a letter from us, follow the instructions on the letter. Please have your tax return (Form 1040 series) available and read the website or letter before starting the verification process. If you already reviewed your identity and tax return information you may check the status of your refund in 2-3 weeks.
Example: We received your return and sent you a letter requesting more information. Please respond by following the instructions in the letter. If you don’t respond, your refund amount could be changed. It may take 2-3 weeks for you to receive the letter.
Example: We have reviewed your return and any information we may have requested from you and are now processing your return. Any changes to the status of your refund, including any new refund date, will be reflected here when any new update is available.
Example: Action Required. Please read the following information related to your tax situation. You may need to provide additional information to receive your full refund.
Example: We apologize, but your return processing has been delayed beyond the normal timeframe. You can continue to check back here for the most up to date information regarding your refund. We understand your tax refund is very important and we are working to process your return as quickly as possible.
If any of these messages are alarming, please join our live conversation.
How to use Where’s My Refund
Here’s how you can use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool:
- Access the Tool: Visit the official IRS website (irs.gov) and navigate to the “Where’s My Refund?” page.
- Provide Information: Input specific information, including your Social Security Number, filing status, and the exact refund amount shown on your tax return. Make sure the information entered is accurate.
- Check Status: Once you’ve entered the required information, the tool will provide you with the current status of your refund. It will indicate whether your return has been received, is being processed, or if the refund has been approved and sent. New Where’s My Refund messages will be added in 2024.
- Estimated Refund Date: The tool also provides an estimated date when you can expect to receive your refund if it has been approved. Note that this is an estimate, and actual processing times may vary.
It’s important to use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool after you have filed your tax return. It typically takes some time for the IRS to process returns and issue refunds. If you e-file, you can usually check the status within 24 hours after the IRS receives your return. If you file a paper return, it may take several weeks.
Keep in mind that the information provided by the tool is updated once a day, usually overnight. If you encounter any issues, the tool may provide instructions or additional information on what steps to take.
Use an IRS Transcript to Check the Status
Another way to check the status of your tax refund is by looking at an account transcript. Use our transcripts guide to find out how to use it to find out more information about your tax refund. You can join the live discussion comments to talk with others about checking your refund status and more.
