Tax Season 2024: IRS Shares Key Refund Tracking Tips

Washington, D.C. — The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) anticipates receiving more than 140 million individual tax returns for the 2024 tax year. With a looming deadline of April 15, 2025, many taxpayers are already wondering about the status of their anticipated refunds.

According to a recent survey, nearly 80% of filers expect to receive a tax refund this year, often relying on these funds to cover essential expenses such as rent, credit card bills, and groceries.

For those anxious about their refunds, the IRS has provided straightforward tracking methods. If you’ve e-filed your return and opted for direct deposit, you should receive your refund within 21 days, provided no issues arise with your return.

For those who file by mail or submit an amended return, refunds may take a minimum of four weeks to process. The IRS recommends that taxpayers only contact them if it has been 21 days since e-filing or at least six weeks since mailing a return.

In addition to the IRS tracking services, several tax preparation companies are offering options to access funds sooner. H&R Block, for instance, provides a refund advance loan of up to $4,000, with no interest and no fees, contingent upon opening a checking account. Similarly, TurboTax also offers advances for qualifying users.

Taxpayers can track their refunds using the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool, accessible through their website or mobile app available on the Apple App Store, Google Play, or Amazon. Users are required to provide their Social Security Number or Individual Tax Identification Number, filing status, and expected refund amount to obtain their refund status.

The IRS typically updates refund information overnight, so taxpayers are advised to check regularly for the most current details. However, various factors can contribute to delays, including inaccuracies in the return and complexities such as claims for certain tax credits.

It is particularly important to note that if taxpayers are claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit or the Additional Child Tax Credit, their refunds will not be issued until mid-February, with the IRS stating that those funds should arrive by March 3, 2025.

For resources or assistance, individuals can contact the IRS directly at 800-829-1040 from Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Taxpayers can also visit local IRS offices for help, although the agency does not accept inquiries via email.

Taxpayers are reminded that they should retain copies of their tax returns for at least three years for their records. With tax season underway, it’s crucial to stay informed about your refund status and file accurately to avoid potential delays.