• Taxpayers can check the status of their federal and tax refunds through the IRS website.
• The IRS issues refunds within 21 days of an electronically filed tax return, but paper returns may take longer.

People who have already filed their taxes for the 2024 tax year may be wondering just when they will receive their refund, if they are due money back.

While most people receive their refund within a few weeks, every year millions of federal and state tax refunds are not delivered, the U.S. government said, so people need to be aware of how to track their money.

Here’s what to know about your tax refund.

When are my income taxes due in 2025?

Federal and state income taxes for the 2024 tax year are due on April 15 this year, which falls on a Tuesday. If you won’t have your taxes complete by then, you can file for an extension.

How can I check my federal tax refund?

You must file a tax return to receive a refund. Taxpayers can check the status of their federal refunds through the Internal Revenue Service’s website.

For electronic tax returns, you will see your refund status after about 48 hours under the Where’s My Refund? drop down menu.

Here’s the information you need handy to check you refund:

• Your Social Security or individual taxpayer ID number
• Your filing status
• The exact refund amount on your return

When will I get my tax refund?

The IRS issues issues refunds within 21 days of a taxpayer filing electronically. Returns filed by paper take longer, the U.S. government said.

Refunds are generally processed one day after an e-filed return for the current tax season; three to four days after an e-file for a previous tax season; and four weeks after a paper return.

If your return needs corrections or extra review, it may take longer for it to be processed.

The timing of your refund may change for these reasons, the IRS said:

How will I receive my refund?

Direct Deposit is the fastest way to get your refund. You can split your refund among up to three accounts.

Or you can use these methods, the IRS said:

What does an amended return mean?

“An amended return is a form filed in order to make corrections to a tax return from a previous year,” Investopedia said. “An amended return can correct errors and claim a more advantageous tax status, such as a refund.”

To check on an amended return, visit Where’s My Amended Return? on the IRS’s website.

Can I track my Michigan state tax refund?

The Michigan Treasury also offers an online refund tracking website.

What you will need to check your refund:

• Social Security number
• Primary filer’s last name
• Tax year
• Adjusted gross income or total household resources
• Filing status

Contact Sarah Moore @ [email protected]