The IRS does not release a calendar, but continues to issue guidance that most filers should receive their refund within 21 days. They also remind filers that many tax software programs allow you to submit your taxes before the start of tax season. However, these software programs don't eFile until the IRS opens the system (with a few minor exceptions for testing). 

Also, you are legally allowed to mail in your 2022 tax return starting on January 1, 2023. However, if you mail in your return, you can expect to add at least 12 weeks to your processing time (at the low end). Make sure you understand all the tax deadlines here.

We also have put together an IRS Where's My Refund FAQ and Questions for common issues people are seeing this year.

Save Your Tax Return

If you're looking to get your tax return faster, check out GO2bank, which allows faster money deposits from the government - whether tax refunds or future stimulus checks. You can potentially receive your government payment several days earlier than you normally would. Open a GO2bank checking account here >>

Also, check out this list of banks that allow you to get your tax refund a few days early.

While getting your tax return is exciting, consider saving it in one of these top savings accounts.

Or, check out Discover Bank Savings, which currently is offering up to a $200 bonus if you open your first account by March 15, 2023 online, by phone, or in the Discover App using the code TCI323. You must apply by March 15, 2023, fund the account within 30 days of opening it, and complete the qualifying activities within 30 days of opening. Check out Discover Savings here >>

What If You File A Tax Extension In 2023?

If you file a tax extension in 2023, you can extend your tax deadline until October 16, 2023. Remember, if you choose to file an extension, you are still required to pay any taxes you may owe by the April deadline. If you are expecting a tax refund, that doesn't really matter - but you still need to file to claim your refund.

Here's a modified tax refund calendar specifically for those who filed a tax extension. We didn't want to clutter the above chart given the dates for filing an extension are typically 6 months later. However, the rule of 21 days on average still applies if you file a tax extension and claim your refund later.

If, for some reason, you didn’t receive your return in the time specified above, give or take a few days, you can always use the IRS’s tool called Get Refund Status. Since the link requires personal information, here is the non-html version: https://sa2.www4.irs.gov/irfof/lang/en/irfofgetstatus.jsp.

Once you enter all your information, it will tell you what is going on with your refund. Remember, if you input the wrong SSN, it could cause an IRS Error Code 9001, and might make your return be held for Identity Verification.

Also, many people are concerned because they received a Reference Code when checking WMR. Here is a complete list of IRS Reference Codes. Just match up the code with the one in the list, and see what the problem could be. As always, if you are concerned, you can call the IRS directly at (800) 829-1040.

Prior Years' Tax Refund Calendars

IRS Refund Status - How To Track Your Refund

The IRS has multiple ways that you can track your tax refund. 

The main ways to track your refund are:

• IRS2GO App
• Check My Refund Status online
• By calling the IRS

Note: the old "Where's my Refund" site is now simply called Check My Refund Status on the IRS webpage. It's essentially the same tool.

First, it starts with your tax software, tax preparer, or your paper refund. Once you submit it, the IRS receives it. To confirm the IRS receives it, you'll see the "accepted" message in your tracking software.

All "your tax return was accepted" means that it passed a basic test of having a valid social security number and other data. It doesn't mean anything except that it's in the IRS queue for processing. Your 21 day average starts from this point in time. If you filed before the IRS started accepting eFile submissions, your 21 day processing time starts from the IRS start date.

At the 21 day mark, you should either see a message that says approved or take action. If you're approved, you should have a date and see your direct deposit in your account within a few days of that date (depending on your bank). If you see a take action message, you may be subject to a tax offset or other issue. Check out these common IRS issues.

Tax Refund FAQ

Here are some of the most common questions and FAQs around this tax refund calendar and tax refund schedule:

When can I expect my tax refund?

The IRS says that 90% of tax filers receive their refund within 21 days. We built our tax refund calendar around this guideline.

What if I filed EITC or ACTC?

If you have the Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit, your refund does not start processing until February 15. Your 21 day average starts from this point - so you can usually expect your tax refund the last week of February or first week of March.

How long does it take to process a return sent by mail?

If you mailed your tax return, allow twelve weeks for processing, then your 21 day period starts once your tax return is in the IRS system.

What if I get Tax Topic 152?

Tax Topic 152 simply means you're getting a refund! Sit back, relax, and wait for that direct deposit or check to come!

What if I get Tax Topic 151?

This means you have a tax offset. Some or all of your refund is being garnished. Read our full guide to this here.

One of the best ways we keep track of what's happening with tax refunds during tax season is your comments and feedback. Please drop a comment below and share your refund dates so others can know!