Basics of IRS Tax Refund Status

A tax refund is a repayment of taxes when you have paid more taxes than you actually owed. Taxpayers must ensure their taxes are filed correctly before claiming returns by utilizing resources such as the help desk (available through tax filing websites).

Tracking Your IRS Refund

The method used to file your taxes determines how soon you can start tracking the status of your refund. If you filed your tax return electronically, the information becomes available after three weeks. Filing by paper will take 6 to 8 weeks before you can begin tracking your status.

If you expect a refund, the easiest method of tracking your status is by logging onto the IRS website at www.IRS.gov . You will be required to enter your social security number, filing status and the expected amount shown on your tax return. This amount is important as it assists in you receiving a correct response. Other methods of checking on your refund status include calling the IRS refund hotline (at 1-800-829-1954) or checking Tele-fax, which entails sending a request to the IRS tele-fax system at 1-800-829-1477, which is updated weekly.

Refund Delays

There are various reasons that may result in delays in receiving your refund check. These include mistakes made during the filing process (such as wrong spelling of names, incorrect social security numbers and incorrect entry of refund amount). Your returns may encounter further delays due to missing forms (such as the w-2 or tax statement form). A change of address or late amendments to the documents can cause delays of an additional six to eight weeks.

Lost Tax Returns

If you have filed correctly and the IRS has not received it, it is deemed lost. It is imperative that you contact the IRS immediately by calling 1-800-829-1020, then selecting option 1, then 4.This puts you directly to an IRS agent who can help you with such a problem.

Payment Types

There are two main types of payment methods, check and direct deposit. If you receive the wrong check or the amount of money exceeds the expected amount, you must not cash the check. You need to contact the IRS department by calling 1-800-829-1040 and inform them about the discrepancy. Within two weeks, you will receive a letter explaining the refund in question and the procedures for correcting it. If the amount is less, you can go ahead and cash the check but you must inform the IRS about the shortfall in payment via the same contact number. If their investigation reveals that your claim is correct, they will send you the additional payment within forty-five days of approval.

IRS Tax Refund Calculator

Figuring out your tax refund is a simple procedure made easier by using a tax refund calculator. This calculator is available on the IRS website by independent software providers or at tax assessment agencies. It allows you to enter all the information about your income and expenses so it can automatically determine the amount of refund payable. Before getting started, you must have on hand your completed w-2 form, receipts showing sales tax for specified items and the residential address you had during the year for which you are filing.