How long will it take to receive my tax refund?

It depends on how you file your return. If you file a paper return through the mail, it can take up to eight weeks for the IRS to process your return and issue a tax refund. If you file electronically, however, it only takes up to three weeks to receive a refund.

The IRS typically issues refunds on Fridays of the week after you file your tax return. States vary on how they issue refunds. Visit your state's Department of Revenue website for more information.

Check the status of your refund online
You will need your Social Security number, filing status (single, married filing jointly, etc.) and the exact refund amount you expect to receive.

Ten Things to Know About Tax Refunds
Are you expecting a tax refund this year? Here are 10 things the IRS wants you to know about
your refund.

2011 IRS E-File Refund Chart
Refer to this chart for an estimated date you can expect your refund to be sent, whether by direct deposit or paper check.

NOTE: The IRS does not guarantee a specific date that a refund will be sent out. Please don't spend your refund before you receive it!

In addition, taxpayers can call 1-800-829-1954 or 1-800-829-4477 to check the status of
their refund.

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