Where is my refund? Here’s how to track your tax return with the Internal Revenue Service

The Internal Revenue Service started taking 2025 tax returns on January 26, 2026. The IRS receives more than 150 million tax returns every year. Most people file their taxes online now. More than 90% of people are expected to file online because it is faster and easier. Many people are now waiting for refunds or asking if there will be a stimulus check.

How to check your refund status

You can track your refund using the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on the IRS website. To check status, you must enter:

1. Your Social Security number or ITIN
2. Your filing status
3. Exact refund amount

After entering details, the tool shows 3 possible results:

1. Return Received → IRS got your return
2. Refund Approved → Payment is scheduled
3. Refund Sent → Money already issued

Direct deposits can take up to 5 days, and mailed checks can take several weeks.

How long refunds take in 2026

Most refunds are sent within 3 weeks after filing. Filing online with direct deposit is the fastest way to get money. Paper returns and mailed checks take much longer to process, as stated by Statesman. The IRS warns people not to depend on refunds for bills or big purchases because delays can happen.


Returns with mistakes, missing info, fraud checks, or identity theft reviews can get delayed. Errors related to Child Tax Credit or rebate credit can slow processing. Claims involving Earned Income Credit, Additional Child Credit, or special forms can also cause delays. Sometimes delays happen because banks take time to post the money.

Tax deadline for 2026

The federal tax deadline is April 15, 2026. People who live outside the U.S. automatically get more time. They can file their taxes until June 15, 2026. If you file online, you must submit your return before 11:59 PM on the deadline day. If you send a paper return, it must be mailed on time and have the correct postmark date.

Will refunds be bigger this year?

President Donald Trump said refunds may be larger due to new tax cuts. In a Feb. 17 post, he claimed some taxpayers could get over 20% back. The Bipartisan Policy Center said the law may create billions in tax relief through refunds. Actual refund size depends on income, tax payments, and personal tax situation.

Is there a $2,000 stimulus check coming?

There is no official approval for a new stimulus check in 2026. Trump said in an interview with NBC News that he is “seriously considering” rebate payments. Any new stimulus must be approved by Congress before it can happen. A proposal called the American Worker Rebate Act of 2025 suggests at least $600 rebates, but it has not moved forward, as cited by Statesman. The Supreme Court of the United States is also reviewing issues related to tariffs that could affect future funding. As of now, no stimulus checks are scheduled for 2026.

FAQs

Q1. How can I check my IRS tax refund status?

You can check it on the IRS website using the “Where’s My Refund?” tool by entering your Social Security number, filing status, and refund amount.

Q2. How long does it take to get a tax refund in 2026?

Most people get their refund within about three weeks if they file online and choose direct deposit.