Filing your federal tax return often comes with a big question: When will I get my refund?

With so much advice floating around online and offline, it’s easy to fall for refund myths that only add confusion and frustration to the process.

Let’s set the record straight on five of the most common tax refund myths—and what you really need to know.

Myth #1: Calling the IRS or a tax pro gives you a more accurate refund date.

While it might feel reassuring to pick up the phone, calling the IRS, your tax software provider, or even your tax professional won’t give you a more accurate refund date.

The truth is, all of them use the same system you have access to: the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool, the IRS2Go app, or your IRS Online Account.

Unless the tool specifically tells you to call, there’s no need. If you do want to check by phone, the IRS Refund Hotline (800-829-1954) is available—but it provides the same info as the online tools.

Myth #2: Ordering a tax transcript is a secret way to get a refund date.

Some people believe a tax transcript is a secret backdoor to your refund info. Spoiler: It’s not.

A transcript shows your tax return summary and past filings—it does not provide any updates on your refund status.

For real-time updates, Where’s My Refund? is still your best bet.

Myth #3: “Where’s My Refund?” tool must be wrong if there’s no deposit date.

It’s completely understandable to feel a little anxious if your deposit date hasn’t shown up yet.

But don’t panic—Where’s My Refund? is updated just once daily, usually at night.

Even though most refunds are processed within 21 days, some may take longer, especially if the IRS needs more information. Also, consider:

• Bank processing times may delay the money hitting your account.
• Paper checks take longer to arrive by mail.
• The IRS will contact you by mail if there’s a problem with your return.

So be patient and check back each day for updates.

Myth #4: “Where’s My Refund?” is wrong if my refund is smaller than expected.

If your refund is smaller than you thought, don’t jump to conclusions. Several things could reduce your refund:

• IRS adjustments to your return
• Past-due obligations like child support or federal debts
• Other offsets managed by the Bureau of the Fiscal Service

The IRS will send you a letter explaining any changes.If your refund was reduced, wait for the letter before calling—it will explain why and tell you what to do next, if anything.

Myth #5: If I got a refund this year, I don’t need to adjust my 2025 withholding.

Not quite. Even if you received a refund this year, it doesn’t mean your withholding is on track for 2025.

Life changes—like marriage, divorce, having a child, or no longer claiming someone as a dependent—can all affect your tax situation.

To avoid a surprise tax bill or a delayed refund next year, consider adjusting your withholding now.

The IRS Tax Withholding Estimator can help you figure out the right amount to have withheld. You can then update your Form W-4 with your employer.

Since withholding happens throughout the year, the earlier you adjust, the better.

Bottom Line

Understanding the facts behind these refund myths can save you time, stress, and confusion.

The IRS has made refund tracking easier than ever—so skip the guesswork and stick with trusted tools like Where’s My Refund? and the IRS2Go app.

Still have questions or need help reviewing your withholding for next year?

Contact our team—we’re here to help!

This content is based on information from the IRS article, “Myth-busting federal tax refunds,” available at https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/myth-busting-federal-tax-refunds.