Tax Refunds: How to Track Your Money and Fix Delays

Every year, millions of people wait for their tax refund money. This money is important for many families to pay bills, reduce debt, or add to savings. But sometimes getting your refund isn't quick or easy. This guide will help you track your refund and understand why it might be delayed.

How to Check Where Your Refund Is

IRS Tools You Can Use

The IRS (tax agency) gives you several ways to check your federal tax refund:

1. "Where's My Refund?" Website

• Go to irs.gov/wheres-my-refund
• You'll need:
  • Your Social Security Number
  • Your filing status (single, married filing jointly, etc.)
  • The exact refund amount from your tax return
• Updates once a day, usually at night
• Might not work between 4-5 a.m. Eastern Time because of updates

2. IRS2Go Phone App

• Free app for iPhone and Android phones
• Shows the same information as the website
• Easy to check while on the go

3. Phone Numbers to Call

• For this year's refunds: 800-829-1954
• For changed or fixed returns: 866-464-2050
• Be ready to wait on hold
• The computer system can tell you basic info without talking to a person

Checking State Tax Refunds

Each state has its own system. Visit your state's tax website to check. Some examples:

• Texas: Texas does not have state income tax.
• New York: tax.ny.gov/pit/file/refund.htm
• Georgia: dor.georgia.gov/taxes/check-my-refund-status
• Colorado: tax.colorado.gov/where-is-my-refund

How Long Refunds Usually Take

Remember: These are normal times when everything goes right. Problems can make these times longer.