Waiting for Your Tax Refund? Here’s the Timeline—and How to Get It Faster
If you’ve already filed your tax return, the next big question is: How long does it take for the IRS to approve a refund? For millions of Americans, that refund is more than just money back—it’s a lifeline. At ezTaxReturn, we know how important it is to get your refund fast, so let’s break down what really happens after you hit “submit.”
What Does “IRS Refund Approval” Really Mean?
After filing your taxes, your return undergoes several crucial stages before your IRS refund is approved and sent. Understanding these stages can help you manage expectations and track your refund effectively:
- Received – This initial step confirms that the IRS has received your tax return. It’s an essential part of the process, as it marks the start of your return’s journey through the IRS’s system.
- Processing – During this stage, the IRS reviews your return for accuracy and completeness. They verify the information provided, such as your income, deductions, and any tax credits claimed. This step may involve cross-referencing your data with third-party sources, like employers or financial institutions, to ensure everything aligns.
- Approved – Once the IRS is satisfied with the accuracy of your return, they approve your refund. This means your refund amount has been confirmed, and the IRS is ready to issue it.
- Sent – The final stage of the process is when your refund is sent to you. If you opted for direct deposit, the funds will be transferred directly to your bank account. Alternatively, if you chose to receive a paper check, it will be mailed to your address.
It’s important to note that acceptance of your tax return by the IRS doesn’t equate to approval of your refund. Acceptance merely means your return has passed initial checks for basic errors and formatting issues. Approval is a separate step that comes after a detailed review of your return.
How Long Does It Take for the IRS to Approve a Refund?
The time it takes for the IRS to approve a refund can vary based on several factors, including the method of filing and the chosen refund method. Here’s what you can typically expect:
- E-file with Direct Deposit: Most tax refunds are approved and issued within 21 days, making it the fastest option for taxpayers.
- Paper Return: Processing can take 6–8 weeks, often longer due to potential backlogs, especially during peak tax season.
- Filing Early in Tax Season: You may experience quicker approval times, unless you’ve claimed certain tax credits.
The IRS states: “Most refunds are issued in less than 21 calendar days.” However, this timeline is contingent upon the accuracy of your tax return and whether any issues arise during processing.
What Can Delay Your IRS Refund?
Several factors can slow down the approval process:
- Errors or typos on your tax return
- Incomplete information
- Identity verification issues
- Claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) can delay refunds until mid-February, as mandated by the PATH Act to prevent fraud.
- Filing an amended return
To avoid refund delays, it’s essential to meticulously verify your tax return’s accuracy before submission. Even a minor error can result in substantial setbacks. That’s why using a tax preparation service like ezTaxReturn is beneficial—it provides real-time checks as you complete your return, ensuring everything is in order.
How to Check Your Refund Status
The IRS gives you tools to track your refund:
- Where’s My Refund? – Updated once per day. This site provides an updated status of your refund and is updated daily.
- IRS2Go App – Same updates in mobile format.
You can start checking your refund status around:
- 24 hours after you e-file a current-year return
- 4 weeks after you file a paper return
Statuses you might see:
- “Return Received” – It’s being processed.
- “Refund Approved” – It’s on the way.
- “Refund Sent” – You should see it soon, depending on your bank.
Pro tip: You’ll need your Social Security number, filing status, and exact refund amount to check.
How to Get Your Refund Approved Faster
Here are some savvy strategies to expedite your refund approval:
- E-file Your Return – Opt for electronic filing to significantly reduce processing time compared to paper returns.
- Select Direct Deposit – This is the quickest method to receive your refund directly into your bank account.
- Meticulously Review Your Information – Double-check for typos and ensure all information is complete to avoid unnecessary delays.
- Use ezTaxReturn – Our intuitive software guides you through each step, helping to catch errors early and ensuring a smooth filing process.
- Reach Out to the IRS – If you encounter specific issues or discrepancies with your refund status, don’t hesitate to contact the IRS. Have your tax return details and any pertinent documentation ready for a more efficient conversation.
Why ezTaxReturn Is the Smartest Way to File
At ezTaxReturn, we’re not just fast—we’re accurate, secure, and easy to use.
- 100% IRS-authorized
- Built-in error detection
- Simple questions, plain English
Thousands of filers trust us every year to help them get their refund faster and stress-free.
Conclusion: Don’t Wait—File Smart with ezTaxReturn
The IRS approves most refunds in less than 3 weeks—but only if everything’s correct. Want to avoid delays? File online, check your work, and use a tax preparation service that gets it right the first time.
File with ezTaxReturn today and get your refund as fast as the IRS allows.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for the IRS to approve a refund after I file?
Most refunds are approved within 24–48 hours after the IRS accepts your return. Once approved, the IRS typically issues refunds in 21 days or less for most e‑filed returns with direct deposit.
What does it mean when my refund status says “Return Received”?
“Return Received” means the IRS has your tax return but hasn’t finished reviewing it yet. The next step is “Refund Approved,” which indicates your refund amount has been confirmed.
Why is my refund taking longer than 21 days?
Refunds can take longer if your return needs additional review, includes errors, claims certain credits, or has identity verification issues. High‑volume periods early in tax season can also slow processing.
Does claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit delay refunds?
Yes. Due to the PATH Act, refunds that include the EITC or ACTC cannot be issued before mid‑February, even if your return is accepted early.
Does direct deposit make my refund arrive faster?
Absolutely. Direct deposit is the fastest way to receive your refund. Paper checks take longer due to printing and mailing times.
How often does the IRS update “Where’s My Refund?”
The IRS updates refund status information once per day, usually overnight. Checking more often won’t show new information.
Can the IRS approve my refund on a weekend?
The IRS processes returns on weekends during peak season, but status updates and bank deposits typically occur on weekdays.
What should I do if the IRS hasn’t approved my refund yet?
If it’s been more than 21 days since you e‑filed, the IRS recommends contacting them or checking for notices in your online account. Many delays resolve without action.
Can ezTaxReturn help me get my refund faster?
Yes. ezTaxReturn helps you file quickly and accurately, reducing the chance of errors that cause delays. E‑file with direct deposit for the fastest refund possible.
The articles and content published on this blog are provided for informational purposes only. The information presented is not intended to be, and should not be taken as, legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers are advised to seek appropriate professional guidance and conduct their own due diligence before making any decisions based on the information provided.
