The IRS2Go mobile app serves as a practical and secure gateway to some of the most commonly used services from the Internal Revenue Service. Designed for both iPhone and Android devices, this free app brings key IRS tools directly to your smartphone or tablet, enabling you to manage tax matters from anywhere.

Core Features of IRS2Go

1. Check Your Refund Status

A primary feature of IRS2Go is the ability to track your federal income tax refund status. Through the app’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool, you can view your refund progress from the moment the IRS receives your return to when the refund is approved and sent. You need to enter your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), filing status, and the exact refund amount as shown on your tax return. Updates are provided once every 24 hours, typically overnight. For more detailed information, see our Where’s My Refund? article.

2. Make a Payment

IRS2Go allows you to initiate payments for current year taxes, prior year balances, or estimated tax payments directly from your bank account. It securely directs you to the IRS’s payment processing systems, such as Direct Pay or the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS), to complete transactions. This helps taxpayers avoid mail delays and late payment penalties. Learn more about different payment methods in our Estimated Tax Payments guide.

3. Locate Free Tax Help

The app can guide you to Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) sites near you. These IRS-sponsored programs provide free tax preparation and e-filing support for qualifying individuals, including low-to-moderate income taxpayers, seniors, and persons with disabilities. For more on free tax help, check out our Low-Income Taxpayer Clinics overview.

4. Tax Tips and IRS News

IRS2Go delivers daily tax tips and IRS news updates, keeping users informed about current tax deadlines, law changes, and important IRS procedures. Additionally, it connects you to the IRS’s social media channels for real-time updates and educational videos.

5. Access to Tax Transcripts

While IRS2Go itself does not provide full transcript downloads, it links users to the IRS “Get Transcript” service on IRS.gov, enabling taxpayers to view and download tax return transcripts for loan or financial verification purposes. Learn more in our Tax Transcript Request article.

Who Should Use IRS2Go?

IRS2Go is broadly accessible to anyone with a smartphone and an interest in managing federal tax matters efficiently. It is especially useful for:

  • Taxpayers waiting on refunds who want to monitor status easily.
  • Individuals needing to pay IRS balances or estimated taxes quickly.
  • Those eligible for VITA/TCE who want quick access to free tax assistance.
  • Anyone seeking trustworthy IRS updates and tax filing reminders.
  • Busy professionals and students who prefer managing taxes on mobile devices.

Best Practices for Using IRS2Go

  • Download the app only from the official Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
  • Use secure internet connections when accessing sensitive information or making payments.
  • Keep your Social Security number, filing status, and refund amount handy for refund status checks.
  • Enable biometric security (fingerprint or face ID) if available on your device.
  • Update the app regularly to access the latest features and security improvements.

Common Misconceptions

  • IRS2Go is not tax preparation software; it cannot file your tax return.
  • Refund status updates are refreshed once daily, so frequent checking won’t provide new information.
  • The app does not store your tax documents or comprehensive tax history on your device.
  • Make sure to enter accurate information when checking refund status to avoid errors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is IRS2Go free?
Yes, it is completely free to download and use.

Can I file my taxes with IRS2Go?
No, IRS2Go does not support tax filing or preparation. You still need tax software or professional help to file.

How often is refund information updated?
Once every 24 hours, usually overnight.

Can I make payments for prior years with IRS2Go?
Yes, payments can be made for the current tax year, previous years, or estimated taxes.

Is my information secure on IRS2Go?
The IRS prioritizes security; data isn’t stored on your device, and transactions occur via secure IRS payment systems. Use secure Wi-Fi for added protection.

Additional Resources

For comprehensive tax filing assistance and more IRS tools, visit the official IRS IRS2Go page or our related glossary articles linked throughout.

This detailed, user-friendly app empowers taxpayers by streamlining access to IRS services from any mobile device, improving tax transparency, and making tax management more convenient.