Federal Refund Status: What You Need to Know
With Tax Day fast approaching, many Americans are not only focused on filing their Income tax returns but also eager to know when they’ll receive their refunds. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has provided clear guidelines on how taxpayers can track the status of their federal refunds. For those who filed their 2024 Income tax returns electronically, refund status can be checked as early as 24 hours after submission. However, for individuals filing returns for previous tax years, the wait is slightly longer—about three to four days after e-filing.
For taxpayers who opted to submit paper returns, the wait is significantly longer. In such cases, the IRS advises that refund status will become available approximately four weeks after the return has been mailed. To check their refund status, taxpayers will need their Social Security Number (or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), their filing status, and the exact amount of their expected refund.
State Refund Tracking for Illinois and Indiana
Residents of Illinois and Indiana also have tools at their disposal to check the status of their state tax refunds. In Illinois, taxpayers can visit the “MyTaxIllinois” website, where they’ll be required to enter either their Social Security Number or Taxpayer ID, along with the expected refund amount. This online portal provides quick access to refund information and helps track the processing progress of returns.
Indiana residents can expect a similarly streamlined process. While Indiana does not have a specific online tool highlighted in this update, the state’s Department of Revenue typically processes electronically filed returns within three to four weeks. Both states emphasize the use of online filing and direct deposit as the fastest way to receive refunds.
Typical Refund Timelines and Filing Tips
The IRS states that most federal Income tax returns filed electronically are processed, and refunds issued, in under three weeks. For those who opt for direct deposit, refunds may arrive even sooner. This method not only reduces waiting time but also minimizes the risk of lost or stolen paper checks.
In Illinois, the state generally processes electronic returns within four weeks, with refunds sent shortly after. Indiana follows a similar timeline, with returns typically processed and refunds issued in three to four weeks. These timelines are contingent on error-free filings and do not include any delays that might arise from audits or additional verification steps.
As the tax deadline draws near, experts urge taxpayers to file promptly and accurately to avoid penalties and to ensure timely receipt of refunds. Using secure electronic filing systems and opting for direct deposit remain the most efficient ways to expedite the process. For those still awaiting refunds, utilizing the available tools provided by federal and state tax agencies is the best way to stay informed.
