If you file a complete and accurate paper tax return, your refund should be issued in about six to eight weeks from the date IRS receives your return. If you file your return electronically, your refund should be issued in less than three weeks, even faster when you choose direct deposit.

Does it take your federal tax refund longer to arrive than your state?

If your state refund is taking longer to arrive than your federal refund, remember that each state has its own processing protocols and security measures, some of which may require more time than the federal process.

When did I get my federal tax refund?

I filed in early February and received notification that my filings were accepted February 13. I have received my state refund a few weeks ago, but not federal. Every time I check my federal tax on the site it says my tax return is still being processed.

How long does it take to update federal tax return?

It can take anywhere from a few days to 3 weeks to update and show the status. The 21 days is just an estimated time frame. The IRS began processing returns on 2/12, you may not find a record of it or the website may say that you have put in incorrect information when tracking your federal refund.

When did the IRS begin processing tax returns?

The IRS began processing returns on 2/12, you may not find a record of it or the website may say that you have put in incorrect information when tracking your federal refund. As your return moves through the system, the status of it will be updated.

When do you have to file your state taxes?

If you live or earn money in one of the other 41 states or the District of Columbia, you may need to file a state income tax return by the April deadline. It is a separate and independent requirement from filing your federal tax return and failure to file it on time may result in interest and penalty charges.