How long does it take to get my federal refund, and how can I track it?

The IRS says most refunds arrive within 21 days when you e-file and choose direct deposit; paper returns and mailed checks take considerably longer. Returns claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit or the Additional Child Tax Credit are held by law until mid-to-late February, so those refunds land later even if filed early. You can track status with the IRS 'Where's My Refund?' tool or the IRS2Go app, which updates once a day. Errors, identity verification, or a return flagged for review can add weeks. To speed things up, file electronically, double-check your bank details, and make sure names and Social Security numbers match Social Security Administration records exactly.