Why isn't my tax return showing on the IRS website?

In an effort to make checking up on the status of a tax return easier, the IRS encourages filers to use a free online tool called Where's My Refund. There is also a complementary IRS2Go mobile app for smartphone users. However, some users report receiving the following message from these tools: 

We cannot provide any information about your refund.

If this happens to you, it could be because of the following:

• You need to wait at least 24 hours. The IRS system is only updated once every 24 hours. Therefore, if you've recently filed, then give the IRS time to catch up.
• The IRS is backed up. If you file in late January or early February, the Where's My Refund tool may be backed up by early filers. Check again at a later date.
• There's a problem with your return. Sometimes even though your e-file was accepted, it cannot be input into the IRS's database due to some error that must be resolved (such as an incomplete or missing form).

Alternative to Where's My Refund

If it's been more than 21 days since you filed your return and the Where's My Refund tool is still not showing a status, then try calling an IRS live representative at 1-800-829-1954.

The representative will need to verify your information, so be sure to have the exact amount of your tax return refund, your tax return filing status, and your Social Security number before you call.