The IRS refund tracker shows three steps. Here's what each one means, what to do if it seems stuck, and why a refund can come in smaller than you expected.
At a glance
24 hoursAfter you e-file, when the tracker can find your return
3 weeksTypical wait for an e-filed return
Mid-Feb.Earliest the IRS can send refunds with the EITC or extra child credit
"Received" means the IRS has your return. "Approved" means the amount is set. "Sent" means the money is on its way.
Calling the IRS won't speed it up. Phone agents see the same thing you do.
A letter from the IRS asking you to confirm who you are? Answer it fast. Your refund waits until you do.
1The three steps, and what they mean
What it says
What it means
Return received
The IRS got your return and is working on it. Most returns stay here the longest.
Refund approved
Your refund amount is set and a date is scheduled.
Refund sent
The money has left the IRS. Your bank may take a few days to post it. A paper check usually comes within 4 weeks.
Use "Where's My Refund?" at irs.gov/refunds or the IRS2Go app. You need your Social Security number, filing status and the exact refund amount on your return. It updates once a day, usually overnight.
2If it seems stuck on "received"
You claimed the EITC or the extra child tax credit. The law holds these refunds until mid-February, so most arrive in late February or early March. That's normal.
You mailed a paper return. Expect 6 weeks or more, and the tracker may not show it for about 4 weeks.
There was a mistake, like a wrong Social Security number or a math error. The IRS fixes it or writes to you.
It's been more than 3 weeks since you e-filed and there's no letter. Check the tracker again, then call the IRS if it says to.
The IRS changed your return. For example, it fixed a math error or a credit you didn't qualify for. It mails you a letter that explains the change.
Some of it paid a debt. Past-due child support, other federal debts, state income tax owed and some state unemployment debts can be taken from your refund. The Bureau of the Fiscal Service mails a notice showing how much was taken and which agency got it. If no notice comes, you can call it at 800-304-3107.
If you file jointly and the debt is only your spouse's, you can ask the IRS for "injured spouse" relief to get your share back.
4If the IRS asks you to verify your identity
If you get a letter like the 5071C, the IRS wants to make sure the return was really filed by you. Your refund is on hold until you answer.
Follow the steps in the letter. You can usually verify online at irs.gov/verifyreturn with an IRS account.
Have the letter and a copy of your tax return in front of you.
After you verify, wait 2 to 3 weeks before checking your refund again. Processing can take up to 9 weeks.
If you didn't file a return, tell the IRS through the same service. Someone may have used your information.
5Common questions
Does a tax refund affect my SNAP or SSI?
No. Federal tax refunds don't count as income for SNAP, SSI, Medicaid or housing help, and they don't count as savings for 12 months.
How do I track an amended return?
Use the IRS tool "Where's My Amended Return?". Amended returns are handled by hand and take much longer than regular returns.
My bank account closed. What happens?
The bank sends the deposit back to the IRS, and the IRS mails you a paper check to the address on your return.
How do I check my Oregon refund?
Use "Where's my refund?" on the Oregon Department of Revenue's Revenue Online site. Washington has no state income tax, so there's no state refund.