What if the IRS Refund is Delayed? Tax Return Status Online @irs.gov

While most taxpayers hope for a speedy return of their overpaid taxes, the reality is that sometimes refunds can be delayed by the IRS. Understanding the reasons behind these delays can help you manage your expectations and take any necessary action.

What if the IRS Refund Delayed?

Tax refund delays can be a source of frustration for many taxpayers eagerly awaiting their refunds. One prevalent reason for delayed tax refunds is missing or incorrect information on tax returns. 

Failure to include essential details like Social Security numbers of dependents or omitting necessary forms can significantly hold up the refund process. 

Additionally, errors in direct deposit information, such as inaccuracies in routing or account numbers, can lead to weeks or even months of delay in receiving refunds.

• IRS Refund Pay Schedule 2024
• IRS Tax Refund Calendar 2024
• IRS Dependent Rules 2024

How long does it usually take for the IRS to process a Tax Refund?

The processing time for an IRS tax refund typically depends on two main factors: filing method and return complexity.

Electronically filed returns:

• For most simple and accurate e-filed returns with direct deposit, the IRS aims to issue refunds within 21 days of accepting the return.
• If you claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), your refund may be delayed by several weeks while the IRS conducts additional verifications to ensure eligibility.

Paper-filed returns:

• Processing paper returns generally takes longer than e-filed returns, with an estimated timeframe of 6 to 8 weeks from the date the IRS receives your return.
• The IRS advises against relying on a specific date for receiving your refund and recommends waiting at least 21 days after e-filing or 6 weeks after mailing a paper return before contacting them regarding the status.

Injured Spouse Allocation and Nonresident Alien Refunds:

• Forms like Form 8379 (Injured Spouse Allocation) and Form 1040NR involving Form 1042-S for nonresident aliens may require additional processing time, up to 14 weeks or even six months respectively.

Factors Impacting Processing Refund Time

Main factors that can impact the processing time of your IRS tax refund:

Filing Method:

• Electronically filed (e-filed) returns: Generally processed faster than paper-filed returns due to automation and fewer potential errors.
• Paper-filed returns: Subject to manual processing, leading to longer wait times.

Return Complexity:

• Simple and accurate return: Fewer complexities allow for quicker processing.
• Complex return: Situations involving self-employment, foreign income, business activities, or claiming specific credits (EITC, ACTC) may require additional scrutiny and delays.

Errors or Incomplete Information:

• Missing or incorrect information: Delays occur while the IRS verifies details like Social Security numbers, bank information, or dependency statuses.
• Missing forms: Delays occur until all necessary forms and schedules are received.

What should I do if my tax refund is delayed?

Here are the steps you should follow if your IRS tax refund is delayed:

Be Patient and Allow Time:

• For most e-filed returns, the IRS aims to process and issue refunds within 21 days. However, claiming EITC, ACTC, or having a complex return can lead to additional scrutiny and a longer processing time. It’s recommended to wait at least:
  • 21 days after e-filing or
  • 6 weeks after mailing a paper return

Consider Seeking Professional Help:

• If you suspect an error in your return, have concerns about the delay, or need assistance navigating the process, consulting a tax professional like a certified public accountant (CPA) is recommended. They can help you understand the reason for the delay and potentially expedite the process.

Contact the IRS:

• If your refund is significantly delayed (at least 21 days for e-filed returns or six months for paper returns), consider reaching out to a local IRS office or calling the agency’s main number for further assistance.

How can I check the status of my tax refund?

Step-by-step process on how to check your IRS tax refund status online:

Access the “Where’s My Refund?” tool:

• Visit the official IRS website: https://www.irs.gov/refunds
• Scroll down the homepage and locate the “Tools” section.
• Click on the “Track Your Refund” button.

Enter your information:

• You will be directed to the “Where’s My Refund?” tool page.
• Enter your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
• Input your filing status (Single, Married Filing Jointly, etc.).
• Accurately enter the exact whole dollar amount of your refund expected as shown on your tax return.

Submit your information:

• After entering all the required details, click the “Submit” button.

View your refund status:

• The tool will display the current status of your refund, including one of the following messages:
  • “Received”: Your return has been received and is being processed.
  • “Approved”: Your return has been processed and your refund has been approved.
  • “Sent”: Your refund has been sent and is on its way to your bank account or by mail.