There are three status updates which the taxpayer might see: “received return,” “refund approved,” or “refund sent.” If the refund has been sent, it could be up to 5 days before the money shows up in your bank account or a few weeks before your check has been received.

The IRS says the easiest and most efficient way to file and receive a refund is through electronic filing and direct deposit, with 3 ways to check refund status