Tracking Your Tax Refund: What To Do When It’s Late

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Tracking Your Tax Refund: What To Do When It’s Late

Waiting on your tax refund can be stressful. This article provides a straightforward guide on how to track your refund status and the steps to take if it’s taking longer than expected, drawing heavily on the resources available at JC Castle Accounting.

Key Takeaways:

  • Use the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool to check your refund status.
  • Allow at least 21 days for e-filed returns and 6 months for paper returns to process.
  • If your refund is delayed, verify your return information and contact the IRS if necessary.

Understanding the “Where’s My Refund?” Tool

The IRS provides a handy tool called “Where’s My Refund?” which you can access online or through the IRS2Go mobile app. This is the quickest and easiest way to check the status of your refund. You’ll need your Social Security number or ITIN, filing status, and the exact refund amount shown on your return. Remember to enter the refund amount exactly as it appears—even a small difference can cause an error.

When to Expect Your Refund

Typically, the IRS issues most refunds within 21 calendar days of receiving your e-filed return. Paper returns, however, take significantly longer. Plan on waiting at least 6 months for a paper return to be processed. Several factors can affect the timing, including errors on your return, incomplete information, or if the IRS suspects identity theft or fraud. For more information on tax refunds, check out this page.

Troubleshooting Refund Delays

If it’s been longer than 21 days (for e-filed) or 6 months (for paper filed) and you’ve checked “Where’s My Refund?” with no updates, here’s what you should do:

  • Double-Check Your Return: Ensure all information, especially your bank account details for direct deposit, is accurate.
  • Verify Filing Status: Make sure you filed your return correctly (e-file or paper).
  • Allow Additional Time: Sometimes, processing takes longer due to unforeseen circumstances at the IRS.

If you filed an amended return, expect a significantly longer wait time. Amended returns take much longer to process than regular returns.

Contacting the IRS

Only contact the IRS if:

  • It’s been more than 21 days since you e-filed.
  • It’s been more than 6 months since you mailed your paper return.
  • “Where’s My Refund?” directs you to contact them.

When you call, have a copy of your tax return handy. Be prepared to answer questions about your identity and the information you provided on your return. Keep in mind that phone lines might be busy, so be patient.

Common Reasons for Refund Delays

Several things can hold up your refund. Common causes include:

  • Errors or Incomplete Information: Even small mistakes can cause delays.
  • Identity Theft or Fraud: The IRS takes these issues seriously and may need to investigate.
  • Review of Certain Credits or Deductions: Some credits and deductions require extra scrutiny.
  • Filing an Amended Return: As mentioned, amended returns take longer.

Advanced Tips: Understanding IRS Notices

If the IRS needs more information or finds an issue with your return, they will send you a notice. Read the notice carefully. It will explain what the problem is and what you need to do. Respond promptly and provide any requested documentation. Ignoring the notice will only delay your refund further. Remember that you have options when it comes to things such as splitting your refund with Form 8888

Don’t Fall for Scams!

The IRS will never contact you by email or social media to ask for personal or financial information. Be wary of anyone claiming to be from the IRS who asks for this information. These are likely scams. If you receive a suspicious communication, report it to the IRS.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it usually take to get a tax refund?

The IRS typically issues refunds within 21 calendar days for e-filed returns. Paper returns can take at least 6 months.

What information do I need to track my refund using “Where’s My Refund?”

You’ll need your Social Security number or ITIN, filing status, and the exact refund amount.

What if I entered the wrong refund amount when checking “Where’s My Refund?”

You’ll get an error message. Double-check your tax return and enter the correct amount.

What does it mean if “Where’s My Refund?” says my return is still being processed?

It means the IRS is still working on your return. This could be due to various reasons, such as errors, incomplete information, or a review of certain credits or deductions.

When should I contact the IRS about my refund?

Only contact the IRS if it’s been more than 21 days since you e-filed, more than 6 months since you mailed your paper return, or if “Where’s My Refund?” tells you to.

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