Where's My Federal Refund?
Get the official status directly from the IRS using their tool. Here's how to do it.
1. The 3 Pieces of Information You Need
Or your Individual Taxpayer ID (ITIN).
Single, Married Filing Jointly, Head of Household, etc.
The whole dollar amount you claimed on your accepted return.
2. Frequently Asked Questions & Timing
When Can I Start Checking?
The time you can check depends on how you filed:
- 24 Hours: After e-filing (electronic filing).
- 3 - 4 Days: After filing through Safe Tax's e-file system.
- 4 Weeks: After mailing a paper return.
What Do the Statuses Mean?
The tool will show one of these three stages:
- Received: The IRS has your return and is processing it.
- Approved: The IRS has processed your return, confirmed the refund amount, and is preparing to send the money.
- Sent: The refund has been issued. Check your bank account within 5 days for direct deposit.
Why Is My Refund Being Held?
If you claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), the PATH Act mandates that the IRS hold the refund until mid-February to prevent fraud.
What if the Tool Fails?
First, double-check that your SSN, filing status, and amount are exactly right. If the tool still fails after 21 days since acceptance, contact Safe Tax, and we will investigate your IRS transcript for you.
Find a Location Near you
Visit a Safe Tax Office location near you or file online from anywhere! Start by entering your zip code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to help you make confident financial decisions.
Tax season typically begins in late January when the IRS starts accepting returns. Safe Tax Nation can help you get prepared early.
You’ll need W-2s, 1099s, ID, proof of dependents, and receipts for deductions or credits you plan to claim.
If your income exceeds the IRS filing threshold or you meet specific conditions (like self-employment), you must file a return.
Yes. Contact your employer for a copy, or use Form 4852 if they can’t provide it in time.
You may face penalties and interest on unpaid taxes. Filing as soon as possible helps minimize costs.
Most refunds arrive within 21 days if you e-file and choose direct deposit.
Absolutely. We can help you file past-due returns and communicate with the IRS to get you back on track.
Safe Tax Nation offers affordable tax filing options with transparent pricing — no hidden fees.
You can file an amended return (Form 1040-X). We’ll handle it for you to correct any errors quickly.
Yes, the executor or a family member can file a final return on behalf of the deceased.
The standard deduction is a fixed amount that reduces your taxable income. Itemizing allows you to deduct specific expenses like mortgage interest or medical costs.
Students with income above the filing threshold or those receiving scholarships/grants may need to file. We can check for education credits too.
You’ll need to report income and expenses using Schedule C. We’ll help ensure your deductions are maximized and accurate.
Yes, unemployment income is generally taxable and must be reported on your return.
Claiming dependents can qualify you for valuable credits such as the Child Tax Credit or Earned Income Credit.
Yes, the Child and Dependent Care Credit may apply if you pay for childcare while you work or look for work.
You can pay in full or set up a payment plan. We’ll help you choose the best option and avoid unnecessary penalties.
Use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool or contact us and we’ll help track it for you.
Yes, married couples can file jointly or separately depending on which provides the best outcome. We’ll help you decide.
Because we make taxes simple. Our experts ensure accuracy, maximize your refund, and keep your process stress-free from start to finish.