How to Check Your ERTC Refund Status

The Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) provided a refundable tax credit for businesses that retained employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many businesses that qualified for and claimed this credit are now seeking to understand the status of their submitted claims. This guide outlines the process for checking the status of your ERTC refund, helping you navigate the necessary steps and interpret the information received.

Information Required for Inquiry

Before inquiring about your Employee Retention Tax Credit refund, gather specific details about your business and the submitted claim. This information helps ensure an efficient and accurate inquiry.

You will need your Employer Identification Number (EIN), the primary identifier the IRS uses to locate your records. The full legal business name and address, precisely as submitted on your original ERTC claim, are also necessary to ensure accurate matching with IRS records. Know the specific tax period(s) for which the ERTC was claimed. The exact date your original ERTC claim, typically filed via Form 941-X, was submitted is valuable for tracking processing timelines. Finally, understanding the method of submission, such as mail or e-file through a tax preparer, along with any tracking or confirmation numbers received upon submission, can assist in locating your claim.

Accessing Status Information

The primary online tool for tracking amended returns, including those for ERTC, is the IRS “Where’s My Amended Return?” (WMAR) tool. This tool, accessible on the IRS website, requires your Employer Identification Number (EIN), the tax year, and the specific tax period for which the amended return was filed. The WMAR tool provides updates on the status of your Form 941-X. It begins displaying status updates approximately three weeks after submission.

For direct communication or more detailed information, contact the IRS by phone at 1-800-829-4933. When calling, be prepared to provide all previously gathered information, including your EIN, business name, and the specific tax periods involved, to help the representative locate your claim efficiently. Calling early in the morning can reduce wait times. While less common for timely updates, checking the status via mail is also possible, though this method is significantly slower and generally not recommended for urgent inquiries.

Understanding Status Updates

When checking your ERTC claim status through the IRS “Where’s My Amended Return?” tool, you may encounter several common messages. “Received” indicates the IRS has successfully received your Form 941-X and begun processing it. An “Adjusted” status signifies the IRS has reviewed your return and made changes to your account, which could result in a refund, a balance due, or no change. “Completed” means the IRS has finished processing your amended return and mailed out all related information.

It is important to note that “Refund Issued” is not a direct status displayed by the WMAR tool; rather, it is the outcome once processing is complete and a refund is due. Amended returns take up to 16 weeks to process. However, ERTC claims often experience significantly longer processing times, with businesses reporting waits anywhere from 6 to 12 months or even longer, due to the high volume of claims and increased IRS scrutiny. If speaking with an IRS representative, you might hear phrases like “still in process” or “under review,” reflecting that the claim is actively being worked on.

Next Steps After Status Check

Depending on the status received, specific actions may be appropriate. If your status indicates “In Process” or suggests a delay, patience is advised, and avoid filing duplicate claims, as this can lead to further processing delays. If the IRS requires “More Information,” they will send a formal notice, such as a CP notice, requesting specific documentation or clarification. Promptly responding to these notices with the requested details is important to prevent further delays.

If the status shows “Refund Issued” or “Completed” and a refund is expected, anticipate receiving your credit either via direct deposit or a mailed check. Monitor your bank account or mailbox for the arrival of these funds. Should you encounter a “No Record Found” status or an unexpected update, first verify that all information used for your inquiry was accurate. If issues persist, re-attempting the status check or consulting with a qualified tax professional may be necessary to resolve any discrepancies.