As the 2026 tax season moves forward, millions of Americans are eager to know when their refunds will arrive. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) provides simple and secure tools that allow taxpayers to track their refund status in real time.
If you’ve already filed your return, here’s everything you need to know about monitoring your IRS refund progress.
What Is the ‘Where’s My Refund?’ Tool?
The IRS offers an online tracking feature called “Where’s My Refund?” This tool is available 24 hours a day on IRS.gov and through the official IRS2Go mobile app.
It allows taxpayers to check the status of their federal tax refund quickly and safely without calling the IRS.
When Can You Start Tracking?
You can check your refund status:
- 24 hours after e-filing your current-year tax return
- 3–4 days after e-filing a prior-year return
- 4 weeks after mailing a paper return
The system updates once per day, usually overnight. It may be temporarily unavailable between 4:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. Eastern Time while updates are processed.
Information Required to Check Refund Status
Before accessing the tool, make sure you have the following details ready:
- Your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
- Your filing status (Single, Married Filing Jointly, etc.)
- The exact whole dollar amount of your expected refund
Entering accurate information is important to avoid errors or delays.
Understanding the Three Refund Status Phases
The refund tracker displays progress in three simple stages:
1. Return Received
The IRS has received your tax return and is currently processing it.
2. Refund Approved
Your refund has been approved, and the IRS is preparing to issue your payment. At this stage, the tool will provide an estimated refund date.
3. Refund Sent
Your refund has been sent to your bank via direct deposit or mailed as a paper check.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Refund?
Most refunds are issued within 21 days for electronically filed returns with direct deposit. However, some refunds may take longer due to:
- Errors or incomplete information
- Claims involving certain tax credits
- Identity verification reviews
- Paper-filed returns
Final Thoughts
Tracking your 2026 US tax refund is simple with the IRS online tools. By keeping your details ready and checking the status once daily, you can stay informed without unnecessary stress. Filing electronically and choosing direct deposit remain the fastest ways to receive your refund.