When to check for tax refund?

Asked by: Giovanni Weber  |  Last update: September 2, 2026
Score: 4.8/5 (24 votes)

Check your federal tax refund status 24 hours after e-filing (or 4 weeks after mailing a paper return) using the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool. Most e-filed refunds are issued within 21 days. For Idaho state refunds, check 7–8 weeks after e-filing or 10–11 weeks after mailing. Status updates typically occur overnight, once a day.

When should I start checking for my refund?

Taxpayers can start checking on the status of their return within 24 hours after the IRS acknowledges receipt of an electronically filed return or four weeks after the taxpayer mails a paper return.

How long do AZ state tax refunds take?

Arizona state tax refund times vary, with e-filers often getting refunds in a couple of weeks via direct deposit, while paper returns can take 8 to 10 weeks or more due to processing and fraud checks; e-filing with direct deposit is the fastest, but all returns face review, so check the Arizona Department of Revenue (ADOR) website at AZTaxes.gov using your Social Security number, filing status, and zip code for status updates.

When can I expect my CA state tax refund?

You can generally expect your California tax refund in up to three weeks for e-filed returns and up to three months for paper returns, but some returns need extra review, causing delays; check the official California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) "Where's My Refund?" tool using your SSN, ZIP code, and exact refund amount for personalized status.

How long are MN state tax refunds taking?

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. 

Video: IRS: Watch out for erroneous refunds

21 related questions found

What day of the week do refunds get deposited?

The IRS issues refunds only on business days. However, some banks may post deposits on Saturdays if funds are received late on a Friday.

Are refunds taking longer than 21 days?

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.

How do I track my tax refund?

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.

How early can I get my tax return?

You can get your tax refund as soon as the IRS starts processing returns (usually late January) if you file early, e-file, use direct deposit, and have no errors; expect it within 21 days of filing, though those claiming credits like EITC might wait until mid-February or early March for processing to begin. Filing a paper return slows things down significantly (6-8 weeks or more).

Does state refund usually take longer?

When you file your federal income tax return, you can check the status of your tax refund on the IRS website or its mobile app. However, each state has its own process for handling state income taxes. If you expect a refund, your state may take only a few days to process it, or the state may take a few months.

What does "accepted" mean on IRS refund tracker?

An “accepted” status on your tax return is a positive step, but it is not the final one. It simply means your return has passed the initial validation checks and is now officially in the IRS system for a more thorough review.

How do I check my refund status?

To check your U.S. federal tax refund status, use the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool or IRS2Go app on IRS.gov, needing your Social Security number/ITIN, filing status, and exact refund amount; for state refunds, check your specific state's Department of Revenue website. Federal refunds are typically updated within 24 hours of e-filing, with most e-filed refunds processed within 21 days.

Where is my AZ tax refund?

How can I check the status of my refund? When it comes to Arizona income tax refunds, processing times vary and depend on how taxpayers file (e-file or paper) and the date the return was filed. Individuals waiting for refunds can check their status by visiting Where's My Refund on AZTaxes.gov.

What time should I see my refund?

Processing your refund usually takes: Up to 21 days for an e-filed return. 6 weeks or more for returns sent by mail. Longer if your return needs corrections or extra review.

How long are IRS refunds currently taking?

IRS refunds for electronically filed returns with direct deposit are typically issued within 21 days, but paper returns take much longer (up to 6+ weeks), and any return with errors, identity theft issues, or claiming EITC/ACTC credits can be delayed, often requiring extra review. You can track your refund status using the {Link: "Where's My Refund?" tool or IRS2Go app on the IRS website, which updates daily.

How many days will it take for a refund of income tax?

Usually, it takes 4-5 weeks for the refund to be credited to the account of the taxpayer. However, if refund is not received during this duration, the taxpayer must check for intimation regarding discrepancies in ITR; check email for any notification from the IT department regarding the refund.

How can I speed up my IRS refund?

Request an expedited refund by calling the IRS at 800-829-1040 (TTY/TDD 800-829-4059). Request a manual refund expedited to you.

How do I know if my tax return has been flagged?

If the IRS decides that your return merits a second glance, you'll be issued a CP05 Notice 1 . This notice lets you know that your return is being reviewed to verify any or all of the following: Your income. Your tax withholding.

What is the longest wait time for a tax refund?

There's no strict maximum limit for how long the IRS can hold a refund, but they must pay interest after 45 days; while most e-filed returns take 21 days, returns needing extra review for errors, fraud, or certain credits (like EITC/ACTC) can take months (45-180+ days), and amended returns can take 8-16 weeks, with unfiled returns having an indefinite delay until filed.