When can I expect my tax refund?
💰 How long does it take the IRS to process an international student tax return?
Have you ever wondered what happens to your tax return after you mail it to the IRS?
Or why it sometimes feels like you’re waiting forever for your refund?
You’re not alone — many international students file early to get their money back as soon as possible.
Here’s a look at what happens once your return is mailed to the IRS 👇
📬 What happens after I mail my return?
Once you mail your tax return, it takes a few days to reach the IRS.
If you’re mailing from outside the U.S., delivery will take even longer.
💡 Tip: Use a certified or tracked mail service so you can confirm when it’s delivered.
If postage is insufficient or your envelope is returned, that will delay your refund — so double-check everything before mailing!
🧾 IRS processing stages
After your return arrives, it goes through three stages before your refund is sent:
1️⃣ Return Received / Accepted
✅ The IRS has your return and begins reviewing it.
Processing usually takes 4–6 weeks for mailed returns.
During this stage, the IRS checks for math errors, verifies your filing status, dependents, and deductions.
2️⃣ Refund Approved
💵 Your refund amount has been confirmed and approved.
Now it’s prepared for release — either via direct deposit or check (depending on what you chose).
3️⃣ Refund Sent
📤 Your refund has been issued!
If you chose direct deposit, expect the funds within five business days (bank times may vary).
If you requested a check, it may take several weeks to arrive.
🔍 How can I check my refund status?
The IRS recommends using the “Where’s My Refund?” tool (or the IRS2Go mobile app).
🕐 You can start checking 4 weeks after mailing a paper return.
The tracker will show your refund’s progress through the same three stages:
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Return Received
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Refund Approved
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Refund Sent
The system updates once a day (overnight) — so checking more often won’t speed things up!
📋 What you need to check your refund
Before you check, have these handy:
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Your SSN or ITIN (as listed on your tax return)
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Your filing status (single, married, etc.)
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The exact refund amount from your tax return
💡 Note: If your refund involves Form 1042-S income (e.g., scholarship tax withholding), the IRS may take up to 6 months to process it.
☎️ Can I call the IRS?
Yes. You can reach them by phone:
📞 IRS TeleTax: (800) 829-4477
📞 IRS Refund Hotline: (800) 829-1954
🕗 Lines are open Monday–Friday, 7am–7pm (local time).
⏳ Be prepared to wait: about 15 minutes during tax season and up to 27 minutes off-season.
🏛️ What about my State refund?
Each State tax office has its own processing system.
You can check the status of your State refund using the refund status tool on your State’s official website.
🌍 If you’ve already left the U.S.
If you’ve finished your program or J-1 stay and already left the U.S., receiving your refund might be tricky — especially if you’re mailed a U.S. check.
International banks don’t always accept or process these easily, so plan ahead and ensure your refund delivery method works for you.