Tax refund approval times vary, but for federal taxes, e-filing generally takes up to 21 days, while paper returns can take 6-8 weeks or longer; state refunds have their own timelines, and delays happen due to errors, fraud, or extra review. The fastest method is e-filing with direct deposit, but always check your specific state's Department of Revenue or the IRS "Where's My Refund" tool for updates.
Generally, the amount of time is based on your filing date and you'll get your refund within 21 days after you e-file. (Paper filed returns can take much longer.) If you file before the IRS opens, you need to wait for the IRS open date (usually in late-January) before starting the 21-day clock.
The IRS only updates your refund status information once per week on Wednesdays. If you e-file your tax return, wait at least 72 hours from the date the IRS confirms receipt of your return before checking your refund status, and at least three weeks if you mail the return instead.
If your return was submitted more than 21 days ago, you may wish to contact the IRS to see if more information is required. You may be asked to verify information contained on your return, your identity or your banking information. Please have your return available when you call.
The return was already accepted – The IRS will reject your return if they previously accepted a return with your Social Security number (SSN) or taxpayer identification number (TIN). If this happens, it could be a sign of fraud or tax identity theft.
The IRS works with ID.me to verify identities and help taxpayers and tax professionals securely access IRS online tools. This article shows you how to sign in, create an account, verify your identity, and fix common issues. You'll also find links to helpful IRS resources.
24 hours after you e-file a current-year return.
In March 2021, eligible individuals received up to $1,400 per income tax filer and $1,400 per child under the American Rescue Plan Act.
There are a variety of factors that may impact your refund processing time, including your fling method, your refund method, and the information included on your tax return. E-filing vs. paper filing: Your filing method is an important factor that can impact the amount of time it takes you to receive your refund.
Fast tax refund services allow taxpayers to access their refunds sooner than standard IRS processing times. By choosing the up to 5 days early refund delivery offered by TurboTax, you can receive your federal refund up to 5 days before the IRS would have delivered it.
The IRS states that 9 out of 10 refunds are processed within 21 days from the date the return is accepted.
The IRS reviews some federal tax returns to determine if income, expenses, and credits are reported accurately. The IRS selects returns for review using various methods; including random sampling, computerized screening, and comparison of information received by the IRS such as Forms W-2 and 1099.
Not reporting all of your income is an easy-to-avoid red flag that can lead to an audit. Taking excessive business tax deductions and mixing business and personal expenses can lead to an audit. The IRS mostly audits tax returns of those earning more than $200,000 and corporations with more than $10 million in assets.
tool on IRS.gov. Taxpayers can start checking their refund status within 24 hours after the IRS acknowledges receipt of the taxpayer's e-filed return. The tool also provides a personalized refund date after the return is processed and a refund is approved. Taxpayers can access the Where's My Refund?
Kansas processes refunds after returns are received and accepted. While there's no set issue date for all refunds, most e-filed refunds are issued within a few weeks of filing (paper returns may take several more weeks). Note that these are general guidelines.
Rumors of a universal $ 3000 check from the IRS have gained traction on social media, but these claims are not true. As of 2025, there is no federal program authorizing a new $ 3000 stimulus, rebate, or automatic payment to all Americans.