How to Check Your Federal Tax Return Status (IRS)
Online via IRS "Where’s My Refund?"
Visit IRS.gov and click “Where’s My Refund?” or use the IRS2Go mobile app
You'll need:
- Your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
- Your filing status (e.g., Single, Married Filing Jointly)
- Exact whole-dollar refund amount from your return
Status updates appear in about 24 hours after e filing, or 4 weeks after paper filing. The tool shows three stages: Return Received → Refund Approved → Refund Sent
Timing & Possible Delays
- E filed returns: status visible within ~24–48 hours, refund issued typically within 21 days
- Paper-filed or amended returns: may take longer—amended can take up to 12–16 weeks
- Delays can happen due to errors, identity verification, claiming credits, or offsets. If required, the IRS will send a letter
Phone Assistance
- Call automated refund hotline: 800 829 1954 (current refund), or 866 464 2050 (amended return)
- Only call the IRS if the tool advises you to do so.
How to Check Your Minnesota State Tax Refund Status
Online via MN Department of Revenue
Visit Minnesota’s “Where’s My Refund?” page on the Department of Revenue website
Required information:
- Social Security Number
- Date of Birth
- Exact refund amount as shown on your state return (usually in whole dollars)
Timing Expectations
- If you e filed: wait at least 72 hours before checking status.
- For paper filings: wait approximately 6 weeks for status to appear
- Updates occur overnight on weekdays, so daily checks are fine
Phone Support
- Automated refund inquiries: 651 296 4444 or toll free 800 657 3676.
- General income tax help: 651 296 3781 or toll free 800 652 9094
What About an Extension Status?
Federal Extensions
- To file an extension for your federal return, use IRS Form 4868. This gives you until October 15 to file your return—not to pay any taxes due by April 15
- Even with an extension, any taxes owed must be paid by April 15 to avoid penalties & interest.
Minnesota Extension Rules
- Minnesota allows automatic 6 month extension—until October 15, no form required—so long as tax owed is paid by April 15
- There is no extension for payment, and interest or penalties can accrue if unpaid balances remain after April 15
Checking State Extension Status
- Minnesota doesn’t display “extension” status per se; rather, you’ll see whether your return has been accepted and processed once you file. If it’s not yet filed or processed, the refund tool simply won’t show a status yet.
Common Tips & Troubleshooting
- Always keep a copy of your submission confirmation (e file acceptance or mailed records).
- For both federal and state refunds, double-check you’re entering the exact whole dollar refund amount.
- Avoid filing a second return—this can delay processing even further
- If your refund is delayed beyond typical windows, you may escalate to the IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service using Form 911, especially if delays exceed 30 days and cause hardship
- Filing electronically and choosing direct deposit generally speeds up processing and delivery
How Three Pillars Bookkeeping & Accounting Can Help
Located in Forest Lake, MN, Three Pillars helps clients manage the entire refund tracking process, including:
- Ensuring accurate submission of IRS Form 4868 or paying MN estimated tax.
- Monitoring return acceptance and status on both IRS and MN portals.
- Interpreting refund statuses and liaising with agencies if delays occur.
- Advising on whether to contact IRS or MN Revenue based on tool recommendations.
Final Recommendations
1. Federal: After e filing, check IRS status within 24–48 hours. For paper, wait ~4 weeks.
2. Minnesota: Check state portal after 72 hours (e file) or 6 weeks (paper).
3. Extensions: File form (federal) by April 15, MN auto extension applies. Pay taxes on time to avoid fees.
4. Keep documentation, enter precise amounts, and follow up via hotline only if advised.
FAQs
What info do I need to check IRS refund? You need your SSN/ITIN, filing status, and exact refund amount from your return
How soon after filing can I check Minnesota’s status? Wait at least 72 hours for e filed returns; about 6 weeks for paper filed ones
Can I get a federal extension to pay taxes? No—Form 4868 only extends filing time, not payment. Balance must be paid by April 15 to avoid penalties
Does Minnesota require a formal extension form? No—Minnesota provides an automatic six month extension to file, but taxes must still be paid by April 15
What if my IRS refund is delayed beyond 21 days? You can contact the IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service or file Form 911, especially if you're experiencing economic hardship due to the delay
Is it faster to file electronically? Yes—e filing and direct deposit are fastest. Paper filings can take several weeks longer and are prone to errors.
Conclusion
Tracking your tax refund or extension status—federal or Minnesota—is streamlined when you know which tools to use and what information is required. At Three Pillars Bookkeeping and Accounting in Forest Lake, MN, we’re committed to guiding you through the process, ensuring accurate filings, and helping resolve any delays efficiently. Whether you’ve filed already or need assistance with an extension, we make it simple, transparent, and stress free.
If you have any questions or need support with your return or refund status, feel free to reach out—Three Pillars is here for you.
Post written by AI, Approved by 3PB
Three Pillars Bookkeeping and Business Services
763-464-6408, Office@threepillarsbusinessservices.com