Three Methods: Checking the Status of a Federal Tax Return Online Checking the Status of a Federal Tax Return over the Phone Checking the Status of State Tax Return. If you are due money back on your federal or state taxes, you'll want to know when you can expect that rebate check or direct deposit to arrive.If asking about a tax return filed with the United States federal government, you can check either online or by phoning the IRS.t takes time for the IRS to process your taxes. Give them adequate time before checking on the status of your refund. 1  If you e-filed your taxes, you should be able to get a refund status within 72 hours. 2  If you mail your taxes, you will have to wait 3 or 4 weeks after mailing in your taxes.