You’ve checked the mailbox. Then you checked it again. It’s been three weeks since you hit "send" on that tax software, and your bank account balance hasn't budged.
Honestly, waiting for a tax refund is a special kind of torture.
If you're looking for your ct income tax refund status, you aren't alone. Thousands of Nutmeggers are hitting the refresh button on the Department of Revenue Services (DRS) website right now. But here is the thing: the system isn't always as "real-time" as we'd like to think.
The Reality of the Wait
The Connecticut DRS has a pretty standard line: if you e-file, it should take a few days to a few weeks. If you file on paper? Well, grab a Snickers. You're looking at 10 to 12 weeks.
Basically, the state’s computer system, known as myconneCT, has to "digest" your data before it even acknowledges you exist.
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If you filed electronically, don't even bother checking the status for at least 4 to 5 business days. The system needs time to handshake with the IRS and verify that you are, in fact, you.
Why your status might say "Not Found"
It’s the message everyone dreads. You enter your Social Security Number (SSN) and the exact refund amount, only to see "Information Not Found."
Don't panic.
Usually, this just means the return is sitting in a digital waiting room. It hasn't been "loaded" into the public-facing tracking tool yet. If it’s been more than 12 weeks for a paper return or 3 weeks for an e-filed one, then—and only then—should you start worrying about whether it actually went through.
How to Check Your CT Income Tax Refund Status (The Right Way)
The DRS doesn't want you calling them. They really don't. Their phone lines get jammed faster than I-95 in Fairfield on a Friday afternoon.
Instead, use the myconneCT portal. You don't even need to create a full account to check a basic status, which is a nice touch.
- Go to the official myconneCT portal.
- Look for the "Individuals" panel.
- Click on the "Where’s my Refund?" link.
- You'll need three specific things: your Social Security Number, the tax year (2025 for the returns filed in early 2026), and the exact whole dollar amount of the refund you’re expecting.
Pro tip: If you filed a joint return, use the SSN of the primary filer (the person listed first). If you swap them, the system will kick you out.
The Whole Dollar Rule
The CT system is picky. If your refund is $500.65, do not type $500.65. You enter 500. Some people even add a "#" sign if they are using the automated phone system at 860-297-5962. It’s a bit old-school, but it works.
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What Do the Status Messages Actually Mean?
Connecticut uses a few specific phrases to tell you where your money is. They aren't always crystal clear.
- PROCESSED: This is the finish line. The state has sent the money to your bank or put a check in the mail. Keep in mind, even after it says "Processed," your bank might take another 2 or 3 business days to actually show the funds in your balance.
- UNDER REVIEW: This is the "maybe" pile. It doesn't mean you're being audited (usually). It just means a human might need to look at a credit you claimed or verify a W-2 that didn't match their records perfectly.
- UNDELIVERABLE: You probably moved or had a typo in your address. If you see this, you need to log in to myconneCT and update your contact info immediately.
Why Your Refund is Taking Forever
Fraud is the big boogeyman here. The DRS has ramped up security because identity theft is rampant.
Sometimes, even if you chose direct deposit, the state will decide to send you a paper check instead. They do this if they suspect something is "off" or if it’s your first time filing in Connecticut. It’s annoying, but it’s better than someone else stealing your money.
The "Offset" Trap
If you owe money—like back taxes, overdue child support, or even certain student loan debts—the state can (and will) snatch your refund before you ever see it. You’ll eventually get a letter in the mail explaining why your $1,200 refund turned into $14.20.
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Dealing with Lost or Stolen Checks
If the site says "Processed" and it's been a month, and your mailbox is still empty, you have to take action. You’ll need to file Form CT-3911.
It’s essentially a "Taxpayer Statement Regarding State of Connecticut Tax Refund." You can actually do this through the myconneCT portal now, which is way faster than mailing a physical form to Hartford.
Final Advice for 2026
If you’re still waiting, the best thing you can do is check your "secure messages" in the myconneCT portal if you have an account. Often, the DRS will ask for a copy of a W-2 or a property tax receipt to move things along. If you don't reply, your return just sits in limbo.
Next Steps for You:
- Grab your copy of your 2025 return to find the exact refund amount.
- Head to the myconneCT portal and use the "Where's My Refund" tool.
- If the status is "Not Found" and you filed more than 3 weeks ago (e-file), double-check that your return was actually accepted by looking at the confirmation email from your tax software.
- If it's been over 12 weeks for a paper return, call the DRS at 860-297-5962 during business hours.