The IRS "Where's My Refund" tool or the IRS2Go app offer the fastest way to check tax return status, with updates every 24 hours. If identity verification is needed after receiving an IRS notice, the online ID.me self-service tool is the quickest method.
Self–Service: The fastest method to verify; usually takes 5-10 minutes. For step-by-step instructions, visit Verifying your identity with ID.me Self-Service. Video call: You will upload your document, then join a quick video call.
Other ways to check if your federal taxes were filed
Your refund
It may take up to 9 weeks to process your return after you verify it.
Use the IRS Where's My Refund tool or the IRS2Go mobile app to check your refund online. This is the fastest and easiest way to track your refund. The systems are updated once every 24 hours. You can contact the IRS to check on the status of your refund.
The most convenient way to check on a tax refund is by using the Where's My Refund? 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.
Tip #1: E-file your tax return
According to the IRS, e-filers should receive their refunds within 21 days, compared to up to 8 weeks for paper returns.
Request an expedited refund by calling the IRS at 800-829-1040 (TTY/TDD 800-829-4059). Request a manual refund expedited to you.
The identity verification process from the IRS can be triggered on a random basis, or it could be due to suspicion that a tax return with your name on it is potentially the result of identity theft.
For individual tax returns, call 1-800-829-1040, 7 AM - 7 PM Monday through Friday local time. The wait time to speak with a representative may be long. This option works best for less complex questions. For questions about a business tax return, call 1-800-829-4933, 7 AM - 7 PM Monday through Friday local time.
An IRS audit is a review/examination of an organization's or individual's books, accounts and financial records to ensure information reported on their tax return is reported correctly according to the tax laws and to verify the reported amount of tax is correct.
The IRS may send these identify fraud letters to taxpayers:
Letter 5071C, Potential Identity Theft with Online Option: This tells the taxpayer to use an online tool to verify their identity and tax return information. If the taxpayer didn't file, they can let the IRS know with the online tool.
Call our Taxpayer Assistance Center toll-free at the number on your letter to schedule an in-person appointment. Note: An authorized third party can represent the taxpayer, however, the taxpayer must be present at the appointment to authenticate their identity. Visit IRS.gov/f2848 for more information.
If you can't verify online
Call us at the phone number on your notice. The number is for identity and tax return verification only. Other tax information, such as refund status, is not available.
(updated Oct. 31, 2023) A: To verify your identity with ID.me, you'll need to provide a photo of an identity document such as a driver's license, state ID or passport. You'll also need to take a selfie or choose to video chat with a live ID.me agent.
Use Where's My Refund, call us at 800-829-1954 (toll-free) and use the automated system, or speak with a representative by calling 800-829-1040 (see telephone assistance for hours of operation). If you filed a married filing jointly return, you can't initiate a trace using the automated systems.
Identity verification can range from instant to several business days, depending on the method; automated processes often take 5-15 minutes, while manual reviews or complex cases (like IRS or immigration) can take hours, days, or even weeks, with some governmental steps requiring 2-3 weeks post-verification for processing.
Overview. Letters 5071C, Potential Identity Theft During Original Processing with Online Option, is mailed to taxpayers to notify them that the IRS received an income tax return using your name, Social Security number (SSN) or individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN).
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.
By choosing the 5 days early refund delivery offered by TurboTax, you can receive your federal refund 5 days before the IRS would have delivered it. The IRS usually sends federal refunds within 21 days for most customers. This can be especially beneficial for those who need funds quickly.