Source data
IRS refund status and processing checkpoints by filing route
Sources checked
- 01Current-year e-file
Tracker after 24 hours. Typical refund in three weeks from e-filing. Source 1
- 02Paper return
Tracker after four weeks. Typical refund in six or more weeks from IRS receipt. Source 1
- 03Amended return
Separate tracker after three weeks. Allow eight to 12 weeks for processing. Source 2
Use the appropriate IRS tracker and distinguish first status from processing or payment.
IRS refund status and processing checkpoints by filing route
The IRS quotes the typical original-return refund timeframe from e-filing or receipt of a paper return. The figures are published guidance.
| Source | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Current-year electronic return status | 24 hours | After e-filing | Source 1 |
| Prior-year electronic return status | 3 days | After e-filing | Source 1 |
| Paper return status | 4 weeks | After filing a paper return | Source 1 |
| Typical electronic return refund | 3 weeks | From the e-filing date | Source 1 |
| Typical mailed return refund | 6 weeks or more | From the date the IRS received the mailed return | Source 1 |
| Amended return status | 3 weeks | After submitting Form 1040-X | Source 2 |
| Amended return processing | 8 to 12 weeks, sometimes up to 16 weeks | Allow this for processing the amended return | Source 2 |