Tax season is here, and if you’re waiting on a refund, you probably want to track it to know exactly when it’s coming.
The IRS has a free tool that lets you track your refund status in real time.
How to Track Your Tax Return
The IRS refund tracker, officially called Where’s My Refund, is your go-to tool to check on your tax refund. It’s simple to use, but you’ll need a few details ready:
- Your Social Security number or Taxpayer ID
- The exact refund amount from your tax return
- Your filing status (Single, Married Filing Jointly, etc.)
- The tax year you’re checking
Where to check: You can access the tracker on the IRS website or through the IRS2Go app on your phone.
How Long Until Your Refund Shows Up
The IRS refund tracker updates based on how you filed your return:
- E-filed (current year): Status updates in 24 hours
- E-filed (previous years): Updates in 3 to 4 days
- Paper filed: Takes 4 weeks to show in the system
Understanding IRS Refund Statuses
The IRS refund tracker will show your refund at one of three stages:
- Return Received: The IRS has your return and is processing it.
- Refund Approved: Your refund is approved and will be sent on the date shown.
- Refund Sent: Your refund has been sent to your bank account, which takes up to 5 days for direct deposit, or mailed, which can take weeks.
Key Tax Season Dates
Tax Filing Start Date: The IRS starts accepting returns on January 27, 2025.
Tax Deadline (Tax Day): Taxes are due on April 15, 2025. If April 15 falls on a holiday, the deadline may shift slightly.
How Much Will Your Tax Refund Be
There’s no set amount for refunds. It depends on how much tax you paid versus how much you owe. In 2024, the average IRS refund was $3,200. If you had too much withheld from your paycheck, expect a refund. If not, you may owe taxes instead.
New Jersey IRS Direct File – A Free Filing Option
If you live in New Jersey, you can now use IRS Direct File, a free online tool to file your federal and state tax returns. To qualify, you must:
- Have lived in New Jersey for all of 2024
- Earned all of your income within New Jersey
- Use the same filing status for both federal and state returns
This tool is available in English and Spanish and works on phones, tablets, and computers. It helps ensure you get any tax credits you qualify for while making tax filing easier and more affordable.
Final Thoughts
Tracking your IRS refund is easy if you use the Where’s My Refund tool and check back regularly. If you e-file, your status updates quickly, but if you file by mail, expect a longer wait. Make sure your tax return is accurate to avoid delays, and stay on top of deadlines to prevent penalties. If you’re in New Jersey, consider using Direct File for a hassle-free way to submit your taxes.
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