ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - As millions of people file their 2024 tax returns, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is reminding taxpayers to use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on IRS.gov to confirm receipt of their return and track a refund.

Taxpayers who file electronically can typically use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool to check the status of a tax refund within 24 hours of filing. It takes about four weeks for the same information to be available for those filing paper returns.

The tool is available 24/7, and allows taxpayers to access information about returns from tax years 2024, 2023 and 2022.

The online tool is mobile-friendly and can be accessed through the IRS2Go mobile app, where users also can find free tax help and make payments.

The IRS updates the “Where’s My Refund?” tool once daily, usually overnight.

To check refund status, taxpayers will need:

• Social Security or individual taxpayer ID number (ITIN)
• Filing status
• Exact refund amount

Most refunds are issued in less than 21 calendar days. The fastest way to get a refund is by filing electronically and choosing direct deposit as the delivery method.

Taxpayers who do this typically get their refund in less than 21 days. Taxpayers who don’t have a bank account can find out how to open one at a FDIC-insured bank or the National Credit Union Locator Tool.

The IRS will contact taxpayers by mail if more information is needed to process a return. IRS representatives reached by phone or by walking into a taxpayer assistance center can only research the status of a refund if:

• 21 days or more have passed since the return was e-filed
• Six weeks or more have passed since the return was mailed
• “Where’s My Refund?” tells the taxpayer to contact the IRS

The deadline for most taxpayers to file a return, pay taxes due or request an extension is April 15.

For information on amended returns, use the “Where’s My Amended Return?” tool.

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