WMR status

Where's My Refund messages, explained for forum timelines.

WMR is a public-facing status tool. It can lag behind transcripts and does not always explain the reason for a delay.

Common WMR patterns

  • Return received: The return has been accepted into processing, but approval has not posted yet.
  • Refund approved: The IRS has approved a refund and usually shows a sent-by date.
  • Refund sent: The IRS says the refund was sent to the bank or mailed as a check.
  • Still processing: A broad message that can appear during normal delays, reviews, identity checks, or transcript mismatches.
  • No record found: Can happen early after filing, when data is entered incorrectly, or when the tool cannot match the return.
  • Tax Topic 152: A general refund information topic, not automatically a bad sign by itself.

What to include in a WMR post

Useful posts include acceptance date, filing method, WMR message, whether bars disappeared, transcript codes if available, credits claimed, and direct deposit or check preference.

What not to post

Do not post your full SSN, exact refund amount with identifying details, address, full transcript, or full IRS letter.

WMR updates are not always synchronized with transcript updates. Many members compare both before assuming a change is final.