Are you expecting a refund from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) this year?

Here are the top 10 things you should know about your refund.

1. Refund Options

You have three options for receiving your individual federal income tax

refund: a paper check, direct deposit or U.S. Savings Bonds. You can now use

your refund to buy up to $5,000 in U.S. Series I savings bonds in multiples of

$50.

2. Separate Accounts

You may use Form 8888, Direct Deposit of Refund to More Than One Account, to

request that your refund be allocated by direct deposit among up to three

separate accounts, such as checking or savings or retirement accounts. You may

also use this form to buy U.S Savings Bonds.

3. Paper Return Processing Time

If you file a complete and accurate paper tax return, your refund will

usually be issued within six weeks from the date it is received.

4. Returns Filed Electronically

If you filed electronically, your refund will normally be issued within three

weeks after the acknowledgment date.

5. Check the Status Online

The fastest and easiest way to find out about your current year refund is to

go to IRS.gov and click the "Where's My Refund?" link at the href="http://www.IRS.gov">http://www.IRS.gov home page. To check the status

online you will need your Social Security number, filing status and the exact

whole dollar amount of your refund shown on your return.

6. Check the Status By Phone

You can check the status of your refund by calling the IRS Refund Hotline at

800--829--1954. When you call, you will need to provide your Social Security

number, your filing status and the exact whole dollar amount of the refund shown

on your return.

7. Delayed Refund

There are several reasons for delayed refunds. For things that may delay the

processing of your return, refer to Tax Topic 303 at href="http://www.IRS.gov">http://www.IRS.gov, which includes a Checklist of

Common Errors When Preparing Your Tax Return.

8. Larger than Expected Refund

If you receive a refund to which you are not entitled, or one for an amount

that is more than you expected, do not cash the check until you receive a notice

explaining the difference. Follow the instructions on the notice.

9. Smaller than Expected Refund

If you receive a refund for a smaller amount than you expected, you may cash

the check. If it is determined that you should have received more, you will

later receive a check for the difference. If you did not receive a notice and

you have questions about the amount of your refund, wait two weeks after

receiving the refund, then call 800--829--1040.

10. Missing Refund The IRS

will assist you in obtaining a replacement check for a refund check that is

verified as lost or stolen. If the IRS was unable to deliver your refund because

you moved, you can change your address online. Once your address has been

changed, the IRS can reissue the undelivered check.

For more information, visit href="http://www.IRS.gov">http://www.IRS.gov or call 800-829-1040.