You can check the status of your income tax return refund primarily through the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool. To use this tool, you need:

• Your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
• Your filing status
• The exact refund amount shown on your tax return

The refund status is usually available about 24 hours after e-filing a current-year return, 3-4 days after e-filing a prior-year return, or about 4 weeks after filing a paper return. The IRS updates the refund status once a day, typically overnight

. The refund status will show stages such as:

• Return Received: IRS has received your return and is processing it.
• Refund Approved: Refund approved and being prepared for issuance.
• Refund Sent: Refund sent to your bank or by mail (may take several days to appear in your account or weeks for a mailed check)

If you filed an amended return, it may take up to 3 weeks to show in the system and up to 16 weeks to process. You can check amended return status at the IRS "Where's My Amended Return?" tool

. If you live in California or another state, you may also check your state tax refund status through your state’s tax department website, such as the California Franchise Tax Board for California residents

. If your refund is delayed, it could be due to errors, additional review, or credits claimed like the Earned Income Tax Credit. The IRS will contact you by mail if they need more information

. For fastest access, use the IRS online tool or the IRS2Go mobile app. You can also call the IRS automated refund hotline at 800-829-1954 if you do not have internet access

. In summary, visit the IRS "Where's My Refund?" website or app with your SSN/ITIN, filing status, and refund amount to check your income tax refund status. For state refunds, check your state tax agency’s website. Refunds typically take up to 21 days after e-filing to process but may take longer depending on circumstances