You can check the status of your federal tax refund using the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool. To use it, you need your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), your filing status, and the exact refund amount shown on your tax return

. Here is how the process works:

• The IRS updates refund information once a day, usually overnight

• After you e-file your tax return, you can typically see your refund status within 24 to 48 hours

• Paper returns take longer-usually about 4 weeks or more to process

• The tool shows statuses such as "Return Received," "Refund Approved," and "Refund Sent"

• Most refunds are issued within about 21 days after the IRS approves the return, but it can take longer if your return requires additional review or if you claimed certain credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit

If you want to check your refund:

• Use the IRS "Where's My Refund?" website or the IRS2Go mobile app for the fastest and easiest tracking

• For amended returns, use the "Where's My Amended Return?" tool, which takes longer to process (up to 16 weeks)

If your refund is delayed, the IRS will contact you by mail if they need more information or corrections

. For state tax refunds, you need to check with your state's taxation department or website, as each state has its own tracking system

. In summary, to find out where your taxes (refund) are, visit the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool with your personal information ready. This will give you the most current status of your federal tax refund