What to do next
Contact the creditor agency shown on the notice about the debt. The IRS handles certain tax-account issues; Treasury handles the offset information.
Read the full account context
Use the whole message or transcript and any IRS notice. A single phrase or code cannot establish every account issue. An ordinary chart gives a planning example; the official tracker provides personalized refund information.
Questions you might have
Who explains the debt that reduced my refund?
The creditor agency listed on the offset notice explains or disputes that debt.
How often should I check?
The IRS normally updates refund information once a day, overnight. One daily check is enough.
When should I contact the IRS?
IRS guidance says to contact them after 21 days from e-filing, six weeks from mailing a return, or when the tracker tells you to call.
Does this site access my tax account?
No. We explain public guidance and calculate date examples. Only the official tracker can show your account status.
Source for this guide
Retrieved 2026-09-30. Planning choices are explained separately.