File your tax return online through the IRS website or a tax software provider

You file an income tax refund by first filing your tax return—the refund itself comes after. The IRS does not issue refunds without a return. You can file online through the IRS Free File program (if your income is below a certain threshold), through commercial tax software, or by mailing a paper return. Online filing is faster: the IRS typically processes refunds within 21 days of accepting your return, though it can take longer if there are errors or if you claim certain credits.

The fastest route for most people is IRS Free File if you meet the income limit, or a paid tax software provider if you don't. Both submit your return electronically to the IRS, which is quicker than paper mail and gives you a confirmation number when ready.

Key Takeaways

  • You must file a complete tax return before the IRS will issue a refund—the refund is what comes back after processing.
  • Online filing through IRS Free File (free for lower incomes) or tax software is faster than mailing a paper return.
  • The IRS typically processes refunds within 21 days of accepting your return, but delays happen if information is missing or incorrect.
  • You can check your refund status using the IRS Where's My Refund tool once your return is accepted.
  • Direct deposit to your bank account is faster than a paper check and reduces the risk of lost mail.

Using IRS Free File if your income qualifies

The IRS Free File program is available to people whose income falls below a certain level—this threshold changes each year. For 2024 returns, the limit is generally around $79,000 in adjusted gross income, though you should check the current year's limit on IRS.gov. Free File partners include software providers like TurboTax, H&R Block, and TaxAct. You access the program through the IRS website, not directly through the software company's main site, to may support you get the free version.

To use Free File, go to IRS.gov, find the Free File link, and select a provider. You will answer questions about your income, filing status, and deductions. The software walks you through each section and flags missing information before you submit. Once you are ready, you submit electronically, and the IRS sends a confirmation within 24 hours that your return was received and accepted.

Filing through paid tax software if you earn above the Free File limit

If your income exceeds the Free File threshold, you can use commercial tax software like TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxAct, or others. These range from $60 to $200 depending on the complexity of your return and what features you need. Most offer a step-by-step interview format where you enter your information, and the software calculates your refund or tax owed.

When you reach the end of the interview, the software shows you the refund amount before you submit. You then choose how to receive your refund: direct deposit to a bank account (fastest, usually 5 to 10 business days after acceptance) or a paper check (typically 2 to 3 weeks after acceptance). Direct deposit requires your bank account and routing number, which you can find on a blank check or by calling your bank.

What documents and information you need before you start

Gather these items before you open any tax software or Free File program: your Social Security number or ITIN, your filing status (single, married filing jointly, head of household, etc.), information about dependents if you claim any, and all income documents. Income documents include W-2 forms from employers, 1099 forms for freelance or investment income, and records of any other income you received.

You will also need records of deductions or credits you plan to claim. This might include mortgage interest statements (Form 1098), student loan interest statements, charitable donation receipts, medical expense records, or childcare costs. If you are claiming the standard deduction instead of itemizing, you do not need to gather receipts, but you should know which deduction amount applies to your filing status. The IRS website lists current standard deduction amounts by filing status.

Submitting your return and what happens next

Once you have entered all your information and reviewed it for errors, you submit your return electronically. The software sends it to the IRS, and you receive a confirmation number when ready. Save this number—you will need it if you ever need to contact the IRS about this return.

The IRS then processes your return. This typically takes 21 days, though the IRS sometimes takes longer if your return is selected for review or if information on your return does not match what employers or financial institutions reported to the IRS. If there is a delay, the IRS will contact you by mail, not by phone or email. Do not respond to unsolicited calls or emails claiming to be from the IRS about your refund.

Tracking your refund status after you file

Once your return is accepted, you can check the status of your refund using the IRS Where's My Refund tool on IRS.gov. You will need your Social Security number, filing status, and the refund amount. The tool updates once per day, usually overnight. It will tell you whether the IRS is still processing your return, whether your refund has been approved, or whether there is a problem that requires your attention.

If you chose direct deposit, the tool will show the date your refund is expected to hit your bank account. If you chose a paper check, it will show the date the check was mailed. If the tool shows a delay or a problem, read the message carefully—the IRS will explain what is missing or what they need from you. If you need to respond, the IRS will send you a letter with instructions.

What to do if your refund is delayed or does not arrive

If your refund does not arrive by the date the IRS gave you, wait a few more business days—mail and bank processing can add time. If it is more than a week late, check Where's My Refund again to see if the status has changed. If the tool shows your refund was issued but you have not received it, the problem is usually in the mail or with your bank, not with the IRS.

If you chose direct deposit and the money did not appear in your account, contact your bank first. Give them the date the IRS said the refund would arrive and ask them to search their records. If your bank confirms they never received the deposit, contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 with your confirmation number and the date the refund was supposed to arrive. The IRS can research where the deposit went and reissue it if necessary. This process can take several weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file my taxes online if I am self-employed?

Yes. Self-employed people file using the same software or Free File as everyone else. You will need to report your business income and expenses, usually on Schedule C. Tax software guides you through this section and calculates your self-employment tax automatically. If your net self-employment income is $400 or more, you must file a return.

What if I made a mistake on my return after I filed it?

You can file an amended return using Form 1040-X. You do not need to wait for your original refund to arrive. File the amended return through the same method you used for the original (online or by mail), and the IRS will process both returns together. If the amendment results in a larger refund, the IRS will issue the difference.

Is it safe to enter my bank account information into tax software?

Yes, if you use software from a reputable provider. The major tax software companies use encryption to protect your information. Only enter your bank details into the official software or IRS website, never into a link sent to you by email or text. The IRS does not contact people by email or text about refunds.

How long does it take to get a refund if I file by mail instead of online?

Paper returns take significantly longer. The IRS must receive your return, open it, scan it, and enter your information into their system before processing begins. This typically adds 4 to 6 weeks to the timeline. If you file by mail, expect your refund to arrive 8 to 12 weeks after you mail it, compared to 3 to 4 weeks for online filing.

Can I file my taxes online if I owe money instead of getting a refund?

Yes. You file the same way whether you are getting a refund or owe taxes. When you submit your return, the software will show you the amount you owe. You can then pay the IRS directly through their website, through your bank, or through the tax software. You have until the tax important date (usually April 15) to pay without penalty, though interest accrues on unpaid taxes.