Go online and use the “Where’s My Refund” IRS tool. It works!
Although the IRS “Where’s My Refund” tool is available to check the progress of your return, it only applies to the tax return you filed for the most current tax year.
For example, let’s say you file your 2013 tax return and soon after remember to file your late 2012 return. Although you filed your 2013 taxes before your 2012, 2013 is going to be the one that the IRS site shows the status for since it is the most recent tax year in their database for you.
So how do you check your prior year tax refund status after mailing your return to the IRS?
Brace yourselves as many of you aren’t going to like Plan B. You’ll need to call the IRS. Of course, you don’t want to mail your return and call on your lunch break the following day. The IRS insists that you wait it out for at least 6 weeks after mailing your return to call and check on the status. When you call, make sure you have the following handy:
- tax year
- social security number
- filing status
- exact refund amount
You can call 1-800-829-1040 and follow the prompts for a live representative. The person that you speak with will have direct access to your tax return and be able to provide you with a status update.
Tip: Request a tracking number when mailing your return. It’ll give you peace of mind to know that it arrived safe and sound.
