How long will it take to receive my refund?  The IRS issues most tax refunds within 21 days.

If it has been more than 21 days, does that mean there is a problem?  Your refund may take longer if your tax return needs further review due to incomplete or incorrect information, if the IRS has to manually calculate a tax credit, or if the IRS determines your identity needs to be verified.

Will the IRS contact my tax preparer if there is a problem?  The IRS WILL NOT contact your tax preparer to verify your identity, request additional information, or to disclose why the refund was not issued in 21 days or less. If there is a problem, the IRS will contact you by mail.  

How can I get more information about when I will receive my refund?  You can track the status of your refund online using “Where’s My Refund” at https://www.c2taxpros.com/irs-tax-refund.html or call their automated line at 1-800-829-1040. After your return has been processed and your refund has been approved, you will see a date based on your specific information.

When can I start using Where’s My Refund? Information is entered on this site as early as twenty-four hours after the IRS has received your electronically filed tax return or 4 weeks after you have mailed a paper tax return.

How often is “Where’s My Refund?” updated?  The site is updated once every 24 hours, usually at night.

​Will calling the IRS speed up the process? No. Unless “Where’s My Refund?” directs you to call, IRS representatives will not be able to provide any additional information to you or your tax preparer.

Will I receive my refund if I owe taxes from a prior year?  The IRS will apply your refund to any outstanding federal tax debt or if you are in an installment repayment plan.  If you have unfiled tax returns, the IRS can place a hold on your refund until those years are filed.
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Can my refund be intercepted for any other debt?  The Treasury Offset Program can intercept your tax refund for delinquent child support payments, other federal debts, state taxes, and unemployment compensation repayments.  When in doubt call the Treasury Offset Program at 1-800-304-3107.​