Most taxpayers receive their federal refund within 21 days of the IRS acknowledging receipt of an e-filed return. For direct deposits, funds usually arrive within a few days of processing, while paper checks take longer. E-filed returns with direct deposit are the fastest method, whereas paper-filed returns can take 6 weeks or more.
Here's an estimated IRS refund schedule: E-file and direct deposit1: Up to 3 weeks (21 days) E-file and mailed paper refund check2: Up to 3 weeks (21 days) Paper file and direct deposit or mailed paper refund check3: 6 to 8 weeks (42 to 56 days)
Status Post the ITR Processing
Typically, the refund process takes around 20-45 days after the e-verification of the income tax return. However, if the acknowledgement has been sent physically to the CPC, it may take longer. Demand determined: This means additional tax is payable.
Refunds to debit cards tend to take between two and five business days, but it can take up to 30 days depending on the company issuing the refund.
Minnesota's state income tax refunds are generally fast, often arriving in about a week (7 days) for e-filed returns with direct deposit, though sometimes as quickly as a few days; however, paper returns or those needing extra review can take several weeks or longer, with delays possible due to errors, identity verification, or scams, so checking the "Where's My Refund?" tool on the MN Dept of Revenue site is best for status updates.
Incorrect names or Social Security Numbers can delay your refund. Double-check bank routing and account numbers used on tax forms. Incorrect account numbers can delay your refund. Complete each form and carry totals to the correct lines.
This means the IRS has your tax return and is processing it. Your personalized refund date will be available as soon as the IRS finishes processing your return and confirms that your refund has been approved. Most refunds are issued in less than 21 days.
Weekends and Holidays: Transactions typically do not process on weekends or federal holidays, which can extend the wait time.
Get your refund faster
When the status changes to approved, this means the IRS is preparing to send the refund as a direct deposit to the taxpayer's bank account or directly to the taxpayer in the mail, by check, to the address used on their tax return.
The IRS issues most refunds in fewer than 21 calendar days. You can check the status of your refund with “Where's my refund?” on IRS.gov or the IRS2Go mobile app.
The merchant starts the refund once you return a product or cancel a service. This is not an automatic process. Instead, they have to manually approve and send the refund request through their payment processor. Some process it the same day, but it may take up to 2 to 3 business days.
24 hours after you e-file a current-year return.
A “return being processed” status means the IRS has your tax return, and your paper check, direct deposit or e-return is hopefully on the way.
How long does it take for the IRS to approve my refund? Here's what you can expect in terms of timing. IRS approval: The IRS works to review and approve refunds quickly and efficiently. In fact, historically, more than 9 out of 10 refunds are processed and approved within 21 days of e-file acceptance.
Request an expedited refund by calling the IRS at 800-829-1040 (TTY/TDD 800-829-4059). Request a manual refund expedited to you.
Usually, you'll receive your direct deposit by 9 a.m. on your payday — and sometimes even earlier. But banks may wait up to a business day to release your funds.
Be patient, and don't worry. If your tax return is correct, it's just a matter of explaining everything (and providing documentation) to the IRS.
It should say return accepted. It just means that they recieved your return, but it hasn't been processed. Refund approved means that your return has been processed and they approved your refund to be sent on the date shown.
Individual returns
Electronically filed Form 1040 returns are generally processed within 21 days.
Your refund is taking so long likely due to errors or incomplete info on your return, suspected identity theft/fraud, claiming certain tax credits (like EITC/ACTC), filing a paper return, or outstanding debts/audits, with electronic filing and direct deposit usually being the fastest, while mail or complex returns take longer for the IRS to process.
Approved – Once the IRS is satisfied with the accuracy of your return, they approve your refund. This means your refund amount has been confirmed, and the IRS is ready to issue it. Sent – The final stage of the process is when your refund is sent to you.