Why can’t I see my refund update anywhere

[KatrinaLO · Accepted solution]

If you e-filed your tax returns, you can also click here e-file status lookup tool to check your e-file status. If you filed it successfully, you should see Pending, Accepted or Rejected.

You are able to track your return once it has been accepted. E-filed returns are typically accepted within 48 hours, but sometimes the IRS can take longer. Once you've confirmed your return has been accepted, you can begin to track your refund. The IRS issues most refunds in less than 21 days, although some require additional time. Please see below for more information on tracking your federal refund: https://www.irs.gov/refunds  

We know you'd like your refund as fast as possible, but we have no control over how fast the IRS or your state returns your money to you. We're unable to track down, research, or expedite your refund, because those actions are only done by the government--you'll have to contact the IRS or your state tax office for help.

The IRS releases most refunds within 21 calendar days after the e-file has been accepted (received), not 21 days from the e-filing date. If the return has been processing for more than 21 days you can call the IRS. 

Here is the general timeline of e-filed returns:

Transmission > Acceptance > Processing > Approval > Refund.

After acceptance, but before processing the status may not be available. If you contact the government or try look up your refund status while your return is still pending, don't be surprised if they tell you "no record found." This is normal; until the government starts reviewing and processing your return, they won't have any record of it.