When will I get my federal tax refund?

The IRS generally starts accepting returns in late January. The IRS issues most refunds from e-filed returns in about 21 days, although some returns may take more time to review. For paper returns, the processing time is longer, often four weeks or more.

To check the status of your refund:

First, you can check your e-file status. It’ll either be pending, accepted, or rejected.

• If it's been accepted, track your refund at the IRS Where's My Refund? site.
• You'll need your Social Security number or ITIN, filing status, and the exact amount of your refund to check your status. You'll find this on the first screen after you sign in to TurboTax.
• If you mailed your return, wait 4 weeks after mailing your return before using the tool.
• If it's rejected, fix your return and file it again.
• If it's pending, wait until your return is accepted.

If it's been more than 21 days since your e-filed return was accepted, you can call the IRS to check on your refund status. Once the IRS has accepted your return, TurboTax can’t provide updates on where your refund is at.

Go here to track your state refund.

What if the IRS says it sent my refund, but it’s not in my bank account?

If the IRS says your refund was sent, but it’s not in your account, there are a couple explanations:

• If your refund couldn’t be sent via direct deposit to your bank, the IRS will mail you a check. You might still be waiting for it in the mail. Refunds take 2–3 weeks longer to arrive when sent as a check. 
• If you chose up to 5 days early refund delivery, Refund Advance, or Pay with My Refund, the IRS may show that your refund is with one of our partner banks. Our partner banks will deposit your refund directly into your bank account, and if that fails, they’ll send you a check in the mail. 

What if I have Refund Advance or up to 5 days early refund delivery?

• Refund Advance funds are typically available within 15 minutes of the IRS accepting your e-filed tax return, if you’re approved. We’ll send you an email when your Refund Advance funds are available.  
• If you chose up to 5 days early refund delivery, we’ll send you emails with the status of your refund.