After you’ve completed and filed your tax return, you may experience a sense of relief and liberation, but you may also have concerns and questions. Here are just a few things that might be on your mind.

1.    When will I get my refund?

Thanks to modern technology, you have various options for checking on the status of your refund, both online and by phone. If you e-file you can check your status after 72 hours of receiving an acknowledgment from the IRS, or if you mail a paper return, after 3 to 4 weeks. When soliciting information about your return or refund, make sure you have a copy of your tax return on hand or know your filing status, SSN and exact dollar amount of the anticipated refund.

• Go to IRS.gov and click on “Where’s My Refund.”
• Call 1-800-829-4477 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for automated refund information.
• Call 1-800-829-1954 during the hours shown in your IRS form instructions.

2.    Do I need to keep a copy of my return?

Absolutely, you should keep a copy of your tax returns for a minimum of three years. If you should realize a tax break you did not take advantage of, you may want to file an amended return. Documents that pertain to a home purchase or sale, stock transactions, retirement, business or rental property, should be kept much longer. Along with the documents, it is always a good idea to keep all receipts, canceled checks or other proof of payments for any deductions and credits that you have claimed.

3.    I realize I’ve made a mistake on my return, what should I do?

Be aware that any errors or inconsistencies in your tax return, can delay your refund or cause an IRS notice to be sent. If you realize you have made an error on your return, you can file an amended return to correct the issues using Form 1040X Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. The biggest reasons for filing an amendment are:

• You neglected to report some income earned.
• You claimed deductions or credits you should not have claimed.
• You did not claim deductions or credits you could have claimed.
• You filed under one filing status, but you should have filed under another.
• You bought a residence and didn’t claim the First Time Homebuyers Credit.

4.    I’m moving and I haven’t received my refund check, what should I do?

The best thing you can do to ensure you receive your refund check if you are moving, is to file Form 8822 Change of Address with the IRS. Another important action would be to notify the post office that serves your former address and let them know where you are moving. You can fill-out an automatic change of address card, while you are there , in person; both will help ensure your refund finds you at your new address.

For more information and Frequently Asked Questions about refunds, records, amended returns and address changes, visit IRS.gov.