How to Check the Status of My Federal Tax Return
Tax season can be a stressful time for many individuals, as they wait anxiously for their federal tax returns to be processed. Checking the status of your federal tax return is an essential step to ensure that you are aware of the progress of your refund. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to check the status of your federal tax return, so you can stay informed and manage your expectations.
Step 1: Visit the IRS Website
The first step in checking the status of your federal tax return is to visit the official IRS website. The IRS provides a convenient tool called “Where’s My Refund?” that allows taxpayers to track the progress of their refunds. To access this tool, simply go to the IRS website and search for “Where’s My Refund?” or navigate directly to the link: https://www.irs.gov/refunds.
Step 2: Enter Your Information
Once you are on the “Where’s My Refund?” page, you will need to enter your personal information to check the status of your tax return. The required information includes:
– Social Security Number (or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number)
– Filing Status
– Exact refund amount
Make sure you have this information ready before you begin the process to avoid any delays.
Step 3: Follow the Instructions
After entering your information, the IRS will provide an estimated date for when your refund will be processed. The estimated date will be based on the type of tax return you filed (e.g., paper, electronic) and the method of refund delivery (e.g., direct deposit, paper check).
The “Where’s My Refund?” tool will update the status of your refund every 24 hours, so you can check back periodically to see if there have been any changes.
Step 4: Additional Resources
If you encounter any issues while checking the status of your federal tax return, or if the “Where’s My Refund?” tool is not available, the IRS provides additional resources to assist you. You can:
– Contact the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040 (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time)
– Use the IRS’s online chat feature
– Visit your local IRS office
Remember to have your tax return information ready when contacting the IRS, as they may need to verify your identity before providing assistance.
Conclusion
Checking the status of your federal tax return is a crucial step in managing your expectations and staying informed during tax season. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily track the progress of your refund and ensure that you receive the information you need. Remember to visit the IRS website, enter your personal information, and follow the instructions provided. If you encounter any issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to the IRS for further assistance.
