3 Ways to Check the Status of Your Tax Refund
Introduction:
Receiving a tax refund can be an exciting financial boost that many individuals look forward to each year. With the anticipation, it’s natural to want to check the status of your refund. Thankfully, there are several methods you can use to track your tax refund’s progress. In this article, we will discuss three ways to check the status of your tax refund, ensuring that you’re up-to-date with its processing.
1.Use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” Tool:
The most straightforward way to check your tax refund’s status is by using the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) “Where’s My Refund?” tool. You can access this online service via the IRS website or download their mobile app, called IRS2Go, available for both Android and iOS users.
To use “Where’s My Refund?”, you will need some essential information: your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), your filing status (single, married filing jointly, etc.), and the exact amount of your expected tax refund.
Once you input this data into the tool, it will provide an estimated time frame for receiving your refund and update you on its progress. Tracking generally begins within 24 hours after e-filing or four weeks after mailing a paper return.
2.Call the IRS TeleTax System:
If you prefer a more traditional route or don’t have internet access, you can call the IRS TeleTax System at 1-800-829-4477. This automated phone line allows taxpayers to check their refund status using the same information required by the “Where’s My Refund?” tool (Social Security number/ITIN, filing status, and refund amount).
Keep in mind that this phone line experiences high call volume during tax season and might require some patience if you choose this method.
3.Contact Your Tax Professional:
If you have employed a tax professional to prepare and submit your tax return, they might have online tools or additional insight into your refund’s status. Often, tax preparers have access to client portals that securely hold pertinent information about your return and may provide progress updates.
Tax professionals can also contact the IRS on your behalf if any issues occur during the refund process or if you suspect that something went awry while filing.
Conclusion:
Whether you choose to use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool, call the IRS TeleTax System, or rely on your tax professional, several methods can help you stay informed about your tax refund’s status. Monitoring your refund’s progress can put your mind at ease and help you plan for how to wisely spend or save this financial windfall once it arrives.