IRS Puts New Refund Application through Trial Run

WASHINGTON - The Internal Revenue Service is testing a new Internet-based service that will allow taxpayers to check the status of their refunds at anytime from anywhere. The web application, expected to be fully operational for the 2003 filing season, represents a major step forward for IRS modernization.

The agency this week moved the pilot project to the front page of IRS.gov in order to test its ability to handle a large volume of users. Taxpayers who filed Form 1040, Form 1040-A or Form 1040-EZ and are due a refund may use the application. The program will mark the first time taxpayers have been able to access their accounts directly through the Internet.

“This program proves our modernization efforts are paying off for taxpayers,” said Charles O. Rossotti, IRS Commissioner. “Taxpayers will be just a couple of mouse clicks away from knowing exactly where their refunds are. This type of real benefit for our customers is made possible through the IRS Business Systems Modernization program.”

Taxpayers can use Internet service to find out if their tax return has been processed and when their refund will be mailed or direct deposited. The application also can help taxpayers learn if there is a problem with their refund and recommend steps to resolve problems. Taxpayers also can find out if their check was returned to the IRS as undelivered.

Initially given a low-key placement on IRS.gov, the application is now ready to test a larger number of users in preparation for the millions of individual taxpayers who will be eligible to use it next year. Taxpayers must know their Social Security number, their filing status (i.e. single, married filing jointly) and the amount of their refund to use the program.

The refund service has undergone extensive testing throughout its development, including a six-month, comprehensive security process to qualify for an IRS security certification. A security certification is required for any IRS computer system that deals with taxpayer information.

Taxpayers can access the IRS web site 24-hours a day from anywhere in the world. IRS customers also can still use the automated, toll-free TeleTax number (800-829-4477) to obtain information about their refunds.

Previous | Next

2002 IRS News Releases | News Releases Main | Home