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How to Check on Your Maryland Tax Refund Status: A Pro’s Guide

Wondering where your hard-earned money is? Checking your Maryland tax refund status is simpler than you might think, and getting it right can save you time and frustration. Here’s the definitive guide, straight from a seasoned tax professional, on how to track your refund and what to expect along the way.

The Direct Answer: Checking Your Maryland Tax Refund

You can check your Maryland tax refund status online through the Comptroller of Maryland’s website. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

Visit the Comptroller’s Website: Navigate to the Comptroller of Maryland’s website. Look for the section related to tax refunds. It’s usually prominently displayed on the homepage or within the “Individuals” or “Taxes” section.
Locate the Refund Inquiry Tool: Find the tool specifically designed for checking refund status. It might be labeled as “Where’s My Refund?,” “Check Your Refund Status,” or a similar variation.
Enter Required Information: The tool will ask for specific information to verify your identity and locate your return. This typically includes:
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN): Enter the same number you used on your tax return.
- Tax Year: Select the tax year for which you are expecting a refund (e.g., 2023 for the return you filed in 2024).
- Refund Amount: Enter the exact amount of the refund you are expecting, as indicated on your tax return. This is a crucial security measure.
Submit Your Information: Carefully review the information you entered, then submit the form.
View Your Refund Status: The system will display your refund status, which may include information such as:
- Return Received: Your return has been received and is being processed.
- Refund Approved: Your refund has been approved and is being processed for payment.
- Refund Sent: Your refund has been issued, along with the date of issuance and method of payment (e.g., direct deposit or check).
- Refund Delayed: Your refund is delayed due to further review or verification.

That’s it! In most cases, you will be able to find all the needed information through online resources.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Maryland Tax Refunds

Let’s dive into some common questions about Maryland tax refunds. These insights will arm you with the knowledge to navigate the process smoothly.

H3: 1. How Long Does It Typically Take to Receive a Maryland Tax Refund?

The processing time for Maryland tax refunds can vary. Generally, if you file electronically and choose direct deposit, you can expect your refund within 5-7 business days. Paper returns take significantly longer, typically 30 days or more. Processing times can also be affected by factors such as errors on your return or the need for additional review.

H3: 2. What If I Filed a Paper Return? Will It Take Longer?

Yes, absolutely. Paper returns invariably take longer to process than electronically filed returns. The manual entry and processing required add significant time to the process. Expect a wait of 30 days or more for a refund from a paper-filed Maryland tax return.

H3: 3. Can I Call the Comptroller of Maryland to Check My Refund Status?

While technically possible, calling the Comptroller of Maryland is generally not the most efficient way to check your refund status. Due to high call volumes, hold times can be lengthy. The online tool is usually the quickest and most reliable method. However, if you have a complex situation or have not received your refund within the expected timeframe, contacting the Comptroller’s office might be necessary. Their general information number is (410) 260-7980 or 1-800-MD TAXES (1-800-638-2937) from elsewhere in the US.

H3: 4. What Does “Further Review” Mean, and Why Is My Refund Delayed?

“Further review” indicates that your return has been flagged for additional scrutiny. This could be due to several reasons, including:

Errors or inconsistencies on your return.
Identity verification concerns.
Matching issues with information reported by third parties (e.g., employers or financial institutions).
Suspected fraud or identity theft.

If your refund is delayed for further review, the Comptroller of Maryland may contact you for additional information. Respond promptly to any requests to avoid further delays.

H3: 5. What If I Entered Incorrect Information When Checking My Refund Status Online?

If you entered incorrect information, the system will likely not be able to locate your return. Double-check the Social Security Number (SSN) or ITIN, tax year, and refund amount you entered. Ensure that the information matches exactly what is on your tax return. If you are still unable to locate your refund, consider waiting a few days and trying again, or contacting the Comptroller of Maryland directly for assistance.

H3: 6. My Refund Was Supposed to Be Direct Deposited, but I Haven’t Received It. What Should I Do?

First, verify that the bank account information (routing number and account number) you provided on your tax return was accurate. If the information was incorrect, the bank may reject the deposit, and the Comptroller of Maryland will issue a paper check. If the bank information was correct, contact your bank to inquire about the status of the deposit. If the bank has no record of the deposit, contact the Comptroller of Maryland to report the issue.

H3: 7. How Can I Update My Address With the Comptroller of Maryland?

If you’ve moved and need to update your address, you can do so by filing Form DR-48, Change of Address. You can download this form from the Comptroller of Maryland’s website. Complete the form and mail it to the address provided on the form. Updating your address will ensure that you receive any correspondence from the Comptroller, including your refund check if it is not direct deposited.

H3: 8. Are Maryland Tax Refunds Subject to Offset for Debts?

Yes, your Maryland tax refund can be offset (reduced) to pay certain debts, such as:

Delinquent state taxes.
Child support arrears.
Debts owed to other state agencies.

If your refund is offset, you will receive a notice from the Comptroller of Maryland explaining the offset and the agency to which the debt was paid.

H3: 9. What Happens If I Don’t Receive My Refund Check in the Mail?

If you haven’t received your refund check within a reasonable timeframe (e.g., several weeks after the expected delivery date), contact the Comptroller of Maryland to request a trace on the check. They will investigate the issue and, if necessary, issue a replacement check.

H3: 10. How Do I File an Amended Maryland Tax Return?

If you need to correct errors on your original tax return, you must file an amended Maryland tax return. Use Form 502X, Amended Tax Return, to do so. You can download this form from the Comptroller of Maryland’s website. Include any necessary documentation to support the changes you are making. Filing an amended return will likely delay the processing of your refund, so ensure accuracy when filing your original return.

H3: 11. Can I Track My Refund Status Through a Mobile App?

Unfortunately, the Comptroller of Maryland does not currently offer a dedicated mobile app for checking refund status. However, you can access the refund inquiry tool on their website through your mobile device’s web browser. The website is generally mobile-friendly, allowing you to check your status on the go.

H3: 12. What If I Suspect Identity Theft or Tax Fraud?

If you suspect that you are a victim of identity theft or tax fraud, contact the Comptroller of Maryland immediately. You should also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The Comptroller will investigate the matter and take appropriate action to protect your tax account.

By following these steps and keeping these FAQs in mind, you can effectively check on your Maryland tax refund status and navigate the process with confidence. Remember to always double-check your information and respond promptly to any requests from the Comptroller of Maryland to ensure a smooth and timely refund process.