Within about 24–48 hours of e-filing, the IRS acknowledges acceptance — meaning the return passed basic checks, not that it was audited or approved. Rejection usually means a fixable data mismatch, like a Social Security number typo.
Tracking your refund
Most e-filed refunds with direct deposit arrive within about 21 days of acceptance. The IRS 'Where's My Refund?' tool shows three stages: return received, refund approved, refund sent. Returns claiming the Earned Income or Additional Child Tax Credit are held by law until mid-February or later.
If the IRS wants something
Contact comes by mail. A notice is not a disaster — it is a question with a deadline. Bring it to us and we will handle the response with you.
Keep your copy
You receive a complete copy of your filed return. Store it somewhere durable — lenders, FAFSA applications and future returns all ask for it. With us, your copy is always yours to keep.
Your situation
General information only — your return may differ. If this article sounds like your situation, let's look at it properly.
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