Trace a missing refund.

Where's My Refund says Refund Sent, but nothing arrived. For a check, a trace can start once more than 28 days have passed since it was mailed.

Code 846 on your transcript shows the date the refund went out.

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Refund trace: key facts
Item	IRS figure
Mailed check	trace after 28 days
Single, HOH, married filing separately	Where's My Refund or 800-829-1954
Married filing jointly	Form 3911 or 800-829-1040

Direct deposit

Ask your bank first whether a deposit from the U.S. Treasury came in or was returned. A returned deposit is reissued by the IRS; since the phase-out of paper checks it may come with a CP53E notice asking for a bank account.

Paper check

Once more than 28 days have passed since the check was mailed, single, head of household and married filing separately filers can request a replacement through Where's My Refund or the refund hotline. Married couples filing jointly use Form 3911.

Next steps.

Questions people ask

How long does a replacement check take?

The IRS says a new check should arrive within 4 weeks of the date it issues it.

Can I trace a direct deposit?

Yes, after your bank confirms the money did not arrive. Have the deposit date from code 846 or Refund Sent ready.

Sources

Checked against these sources on October 30, 2026.