Once you have filed your annual income tax return (Declaración de la Renta) in Spain, the most pressing question is often: “When will I actually receive my money?” If your tax result is negative (a minus sign next to the figure), it indicates that the state owes you a refund (a devolver).
Checking the status of the income tax refund is a straightforward, 100% online process. Understanding the specific messages from the Spanish Tax Agency (Agencia Tributaria) can save you from unnecessary stress and help you identify if additional action is required.
What “To Be Refunded” Means for Your 2025 Taxes
If your return shows a refund, it means that the withholdings (retenciones) applied to your salary or invoices throughout the year exceeded your actual tax liability. Hacienda will process this refund automatically, provided your declaration is verified and contains no discrepancies.
For the 2026 tax campaign (covering income earned in 2025), it is crucial to monitor your file through official channels only, as phishing scams impersonating the Tax Agency often peak during this period.
Step-by-Step Guide: Checking Your Status Online
You can track the status of the income tax refund using the Sede Electrónica (Electronic Office) or the official mobile app.
- Access the Official Portal: Go to the Agencia Tributaria website and select the “Renta 2025” section. Click on ¨Access the campaign¨ and then “All produce”
- and then “All produce”
- Navigate to Your File: Select “Draft/declaration processing service“. Your current status will be displayed at the top of the summary page.
- Secure Identification: To view your private tax file, you must log in using one of these methods:
- Digital Certificate or DNIe.
- Cl@ve Mobile or Cl@ve PIN.
- Reference Number (obtained using your NIF and the amount from Box 505 of your previous year’s return).
Deciphering the Status Messages
The Agency uses specific terminology to describe where your money is in the pipeline:
- “Su declaración se está tramitando”: This is the initial stage. Your return has been received and is waiting in the queue for automated or manual verification.
- “Su declaración está siendo comprobada”: Don’t worry—this doesn’t always mean an audit. It usually indicates that the system is cross-referencing your data with third parties (banks, employers, etc.).
- “Su declaración ha sido tramitada por los órganos de Gestión…”: This means the Agency has finished the review and agrees with your result. Your refund is approved.
- “Su devolución ha sido emitida”: The payment order has been sent to your bank. You should see the funds in your account within 2–4 business days.
Speed Up the Process with the VERIFICA System
If your status of the income tax refund has been “being checked” for several weeks, look for the VERIFICA tool within your file. This system allows you to:
- Identify minor discrepancies detected by the Agency.
- Correct or accept changes online without waiting for a formal letter.
- Significantly expedite the payment of your refund.
Key Deadlines for the 2026 Campaign
If the Tax Agency does not issue your refund within 6 months of the June 30 deadline (or 6 months after you filed if you filed late), they are legally required to pay you late payment interest (currently set at 4.0625% for 2026) automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “Su expediente se encuentra en tramitación” mean?
This is a standard message. It simply means the Agency is still working on your file. If it remains stuck here past December, you should check for any notifications or requirements in your “Notifications” inbox (Mis notificaciones).
Can I change my bank account after filing?
Yes, as long as the status of the income tax refund has not yet reached “issued” (emitida). You can modify your IBAN through the “Modify my tax return” option in the Renta WEB service.
What if I owe money to other public bodies?
If you have outstanding traffic fines, unpaid Social Security quotas, or local taxes (IBI), the Agency will perform a “compensation.” They will subtract your debts from your refund and send you only the remaining balance.
Monitoring your status of the income tax refund is the best way to ensure your 2026 tax season ends smoothly. While most refunds arrive in days, being aware of your file’s status allows you to react quickly if the Tax Agency requires more information.
If you need personalized assistance, at Entre Trámites we offer management and tax advisory services for freelancers and SMEs. You can contact us through this contact form for us to call you, or if you prefer, you can schedule a free consultation or write to us on WhatsApp.
