IRS Launches New Tools for 2024 Tax Season, Promising Faster Refunds

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) kicked off the 2024 tax season on Monday, introducing new tools and services aimed at simplifying the filing process and helping taxpayers track their refunds more efficiently. With inflation impacting household budgets, many Americans are eagerly awaiting their refunds, which averaged $3,170 last year.

The IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool, available online and through the IRS2Go mobile app, allows filers to monitor the status of their refunds from submission to payment. The tool updates once daily and provides one of three statuses: return received, refund approved, or refund sent. Taxpayers can access the tool in English or Spanish via the Google Play, Apple App, or Amazon app stores.

To use the tool, filers need their Social Security number, filing status, and the exact refund amount. Refund information typically appears within 24 hours of e-filing or four weeks after mailing a paper return. For amended returns, a separate tool is available on the IRS website.

This year, the IRS also expanded its free Direct File program, making it available to taxpayers in 25 states who meet specific income thresholds. Single filers earning up to $200,000, married couples filing jointly earning up to $250,000, and married couples filing separately earning up to $125,000 are eligible.

Tax season runs through mid-April, with most e-filers receiving refunds within 21 days. Paper filers may wait six to eight weeks for their refunds. The IRS encourages taxpayers to file electronically and use direct deposit to expedite the process.