Michigan filers can check their refund status 24 hours after e-filing using the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool or the IRS2Go mobile app.
IRS Refund Tracker Helps Taxpayers Stay Informed

The Internal Revenue Service’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool continues to be the fastest way for Michigan taxpayers to track the status of their federal tax refunds. Updated once daily, typically overnight, the tool offers updates starting:
- 24 hours after e-filing a current-year return
- 3–4 days after e-filing a prior-year return
- 4 weeks after mailing a paper return
The tool is available online at irs.gov and via the IRS2Go mobile app, which provides the same functionality for smartphones.
Refund Status Categories Explained
Once logged in, users can see one of three refund statuses:
- Return Received – The IRS has received and is processing the return.
- Refund Approved – The IRS has approved the refund and scheduled its release.
- Refund Sent – The refund has been issued to the bank or mailed, which may take up to five days for direct deposits or several weeks for paper checks.?
Users will need their Social Security number or ITIN, filing status, and the exact refund amount to access their status.
When to Contact the IRS and When Not To
The IRS urges filers not to submit duplicate returns, as doing so can cause additional delays. Only resubmit if all of the following apply:
- You’re expecting a refund
- You mailed a paper return more than six months ago
- “Where’s My Refund?” does not show receipt of your return
If there is a delay due to errors, required corrections, or additional review, the IRS will contact taxpayers by mail.
Call the IRS only if “Where’s My Refund?” instructs you to do so. Contacting the agency without that prompt may not expedite your refund.
Additional Resources and Related Tools

- Amended returns must be checked separately using the Where’s My Amended Return? tool.
- You can access a full tax transcript or previous return details via your IRS Online Account.
Find More Interesting Feature Stories From ThumbWind
- Michigan Feature Stories – Unveiling the diverse and vibrant people, captivating places, and remarkable events that make the Great Lake State unique.
- Weird Political News – A sarcastic take on official news from around the U.S., exploring the absurdities in the political landscape.
- Michigan News – News and events from Michigan’s Upper Thumb region worth knowing, including impactful interviews and community updates.
Your Turn – Like This, or Loath it – We Want To Hear From You
Please offer an insightful and thoughtful comment. We review each response. Follow us to have other feature stories fill up your email box, or check us out on Newsbreak at ThumbWind Publications.
Discover more from Thumbwind
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.