Refund Time?

Many people are excited to get a tax refund. While this is really just money you’ve overpaid on your taxes throughout the year, it can still be nice to get that big sum of money all at once.

Once you’ve filed your taxes, however, waiting on that refund can often be an anxiety-inducing experience, filled with confusion. Don’t worry, though. If you can keep some simple advice in mind, you should receive your refund with a hitch.  

Don’t Use the “Where’s My Refund” Tool Right Away

You are probably aware that the IRS maintains a handy “Where’s My Refund” tool online. Via this tool, you can actually track your refund on its journey to you in much the same way you would track a package. However, don’t expect this tool to work right away, and don’t panic if it doesn’t.

Typically, the tool won’t start working for you until about 24 to 48 hours after the IRS has received your refund. Then, you should see a “return received” status via the tool. Eventually, this status will change to the date when you can expect your refund.

If the tool doesn’t work for you a few days after your submission, then you may want to contact the IRS about your return. Otherwise, just be patient.

Choose the Direct Deposit Option

When you file your tax returns, you will be able to choose how you wish to receive your refund.

While you could have a check mailed to you, the simplest and fastest option is to have funds direct deposited into your account. If you set this up at the time of filing, your refund should instantly appear in your bank account on the arrival date provided by the IRS.

Waiting on your refund to arrive is not fun. But, if you follow this advice, the process should be simpler and smoother with a lot less worrying, waiting, and wondering involved.