How To Check Tax Return Status: A Comprehensive Guide For 2023
Filing your taxes can be a stressful process, but the work does not stop there – you need to make sure your return was received and processed correctly. Fortunately, there are many ways to check your tax return status, and it is easier than ever to do so in 2023. If you’re wondering how to check your tax return status, this guide has all the information you need to get started.
Where to Check Your Tax Return Status
The IRS has several online tools that you can use to check your tax return status. The first step is to access the IRS “Where’s My Refund” tool, which is available on IRS.gov. To use this tool, you will need to enter your Social Security number, your filing status, and the exact amount of the refund you are expecting. The tool will then provide you with information about the status of your refund.
If you’re using the Where’s My Refund tool for the first time, it is important to note that it does not provide information about the status of your return until at least 24 hours after the IRS has received your e-filed return, or four weeks after you have mailed a paper return. If you are checking on the status of your refund more than 21 days after you e-filed, or more than six weeks after you mailed your paper return, the tool will provide additional information about why your refund is taking longer than expected.
Using the IRS2Go App to Check Tax Return Status
You can also use the IRS2Go app to check the status of your tax return. The app is available for free on both Android and iOS devices, and you will need to create an account with the IRS to use it. After you have created an account, you can check the status of your return by selecting the “Check Your Refund Status” option. You will need to enter your Social Security number, your filing status, and the amount of your refund. The app will then provide you with information about the status of your return.
Check Your Tax Return Status by Phone
If you do not have access to the internet, you can also call the IRS to check the status of your tax return. To do this, you will need to call the IRS Refund Hotline at 800-829-1954. When you call, you will need to provide the same information that you would if you were using the “Where’s My Refund” tool or the IRS2Go app. The automated system will then provide you with information about the status of your return.
Why Your Refund Might Take Longer
If you have been waiting for your refund for longer than expected, there are a few possible reasons why it might be taking longer than expected. One of the most common reasons is that the IRS needs additional information from you in order to process your return. If this is the case, you will receive a letter in the mail from the IRS that explains why they need more information and what you need to do.
Another possible reason why your refund might be delayed is that the IRS is conducting an audit of your return. If your return is being audited, the IRS will contact you directly. You should not contact them for more information about the audit, as doing so could delay the audit process.
Identity Theft and Tax Return Status
If your tax return is taking longer than expected, it is possible that you are the victim of identity theft. If the IRS suspects that someone has stolen your Social Security number and is using it to file a fraudulent return in your name, they will delay processing your return until the situation is resolved. If this is the case, you will receive a letter in the mail from the IRS with instructions on how to resolve the issue.
Filing an Amended Return
If you have already filed your taxes and need to make changes, you can file an amended return. To do this, you will need to fill out Form 1040X and mail it to the IRS. Make sure to include any documentation that supports the changes you are making. Once the IRS receives your amended return, it will take several weeks for them to process it and update your refund status.
Conclusion
While it can be stressful to wait for your refund, there are several ways to check your tax return status. You can use the IRS “Where’s My Refund” tool, the IRS2Go app, or the IRS Refund Hotline to check the status of your return. If your refund is taking longer than expected, it could be because the IRS needs additional information from you, or because they are conducting an audit of your return. Alternatively, it is possible that you are the victim of identity theft. If you need to make changes to your return, you can file an amended return using Form 1040X.