How do I know if the IRS received my refund when I do it through mail?

[VolvoGirl]

You mean your tax return.  The refund is the amount you get back (unless you owe a tax due).

After 3 weeks you can check your refund status at Where's My Refund. This is for your Federal Return.

https://sa1.www4.irs.gov/irfof/lang/en/irfofgetstatus.jsp