Track Your Colorado Tax Refund: State and Federal Guide
Tax season may end, but many refunds take time to arrive. About three quarters of taxpayers receive refunds each year.
Colorado refund timing
Colorado refunds usually arrive in three to five weeks. This applies when you file electronically and choose direct deposit.
Paper returns and mailed checks take much longer. Expect up to three months for paper processing, according to the Colorado Department of Revenue.
How to check your Colorado refund
Use the Colorado Department of Revenue website to check status. Select “Where’s My Refund for Individuals” under Refund Resources.
You must enter your Social Security number or individual taxpayer identification number. Enter the refund amount listed on your return.
You can also call 303-238-7378 for the same information. The state will verify your identity and you may face hold times.
Federal refund timing
The IRS typically processes electronically filed returns within 21 days. Paper returns can take six to eight weeks to process.
Direct deposit is significantly faster than paper checks. The IRS is phasing out paper checks.
How to check your federal refund
The IRS offers an online tool and a mobile app to track refunds. Both require your Social Security or individual taxpayer ID number.
You will also need your filing status and the exact refund amount. Information on the IRS site and app is updated overnight.
Common reasons refunds are delayed
Delays usually stem from incorrect or incomplete paperwork. Errors and missing documents slow processing for both state and federal returns.
Quick summary
To Track Colorado tax refunds faster, file electronically and choose direct deposit. Use the state and federal guide tools to monitor status.
Filmogaz.com compiled this overview to help taxpayers estimate arrival times and understand common delays.