Who to contact depends on whether you filed with the IRS or your state

The person or office you reach depends on which tax return your question is about. If you filed a federal return, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) handles it. If you filed a state return, your state tax agency handles it. Some people file both and may need to contact both offices. Start by identifying which return your refund question concerns, then use the contact method that matches.

The IRS and state tax agencies do not share a single phone line or chat system. Each has its own phone numbers, websites, and wait times. Knowing which one you need before you call saves you from being transferred or having to call twice.

Key Takeaways

  • The IRS handles federal tax refunds; your state tax agency handles state refunds — contact the one that matches your question.
  • The IRS phone line has long wait times, especially during tax season, so calling early in the morning or in off-season months reduces your wait.
  • The IRS website at irs.gov includes a "Where's My Refund?" tool that answers most common questions without requiring a phone call.
  • State tax agencies have their own phone numbers and websites; find yours by searching "[your state] tax refund status" or "[your state] department of revenue."
  • If you used a tax preparer or software, that company's support line may be faster than calling the IRS directly for certain questions.

Calling the IRS for a federal tax refund question

The IRS phone number is 1-800-829-1040. This line is open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. in your local time zone. Wait times are longest during tax season (January through April) and shortest in the fall and winter. If you call in early morning or late afternoon, you typically wait less than an hour. If you call midday during tax season, you may wait two to three hours or longer.

Have your Social Security number, filing status, and the amount you expect to receive ready before you call. The IRS representative can look up your refund status, tell you when it will arrive, and explain why it might be delayed. They can also answer questions about amended returns, missing refunds from prior years, and issues with direct deposit information.

If you cannot reach someone by phone, the IRS also offers a callback service on its website. You enter your phone number and preferred callback time, and an IRS representative calls you back instead of making you wait on hold. This option is available at irs.gov under "Contact Us."

Using the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool online

Before calling, check the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool at irs.gov. This tool answers the most common refund questions without requiring you to speak to anyone. You enter your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact refund amount from your return, and the tool tells you the current status and expected delivery date.

The tool updates once per day, usually overnight. If your return was filed fewer than 24 hours ago, the tool will not yet show it. If your return is still being processed, the tool tells you how many weeks remain. If your refund has been sent, it shows the delivery method (direct deposit or check) and the date it should arrive.

This tool handles about 80 percent of refund questions. Use it first, and call the IRS only if the tool does not answer your specific question or if something looks wrong.

Contacting your state tax agency about a state refund

Each state has its own tax agency with its own phone number and website. To find yours, search "[your state name] tax refund status" or "[your state name] department of revenue." Most state websites have a refund status tool similar to the IRS tool, where you can check your state refund without calling.

State phone lines typically have shorter wait times than the IRS, especially outside tax season. However, hours and availability vary by state. Some states offer phone support year-round; others limit it to tax season. Check your state's website for current hours before calling.

When you call, have your Social Security number and the amount you expect to receive ready. State representatives can tell you the status of your state return, explain delays, and address questions about state-specific issues like local taxes or state credits.

Reaching your tax preparer or software company

If you used a tax preparer (an accountant, tax attorney, or tax service) or tax software (TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxAct, etc.), that company's support line may be faster than calling the IRS for certain questions. Tax preparers can look up your return in their own records and may be able to contact the IRS on your behalf if something is wrong.

Tax software companies offer phone, chat, and email support. Their representatives can help you understand your return, explain why a refund is delayed, or walk you through amending a return. Some software companies charge for phone support unless you purchased a premium tier, so check your account before calling.

If your preparer filed your return, they have a record of it and can pull up details faster than you can. This is especially useful if you have questions about deductions, credits, or why your refund is smaller or larger than you expected.

What to do if you cannot reach anyone or get conflicting information

If you call multiple times and cannot reach a representative, or if you receive different answers from different people, document what you were told and by whom. Write down the date, time, phone number you called, and the name of the person who helped you (if they provided it). This record protects you if there is a dispute later.

If you believe there is an error on your return or your refund is missing, you can file a complaint with the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS), which is a free IRS office that helps people resolve disputes. You can reach TAS at 1-877-777-4778 or through irs.gov. TAS can investigate your case and push for a resolution if the normal IRS process is not working.

For state refund issues, most states have an ombudsman or taxpayer advocate office as well. Search "[your state name] taxpayer advocate" to find contact information.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will I wait on hold if I call the IRS?

Wait times range from 15 minutes to three hours depending on the time of day and time of year. Tax season (January through April) has the longest waits. Calling before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. usually reduces your wait. The IRS callback service lets you avoid holding altogether.

Can I email the IRS about my refund instead of calling?

The IRS does not accept email for refund status questions. You must use the "Where's My Refund?" tool, call 1-800-829-1040, or use the callback service. Some state tax agencies do accept email; check your state's website.

What if I filed my return through a tax preparer — do I call them or the IRS?

Call your tax preparer first. They have your return on file and can answer questions faster than the IRS can. If your preparer cannot resolve the issue, they can contact the IRS on your behalf or advise you to call yourself.

Will the IRS tell me why my refund is delayed?

Yes. Common reasons include missing information on your return, a mismatch between your return and IRS records, identity verification requirements, or a backlog during tax season. The IRS representative can explain which applies to you and what happens next.

Can I call about a refund from a prior year?

Yes. Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 with your Social Security number and the year in question. The IRS can tell you whether the refund was processed, sent, or is still pending. If a refund from more than three years ago is missing, you may need to file a claim.