The process of waiting for your IRS tax refund can be difficult and stressful for some people especially in instances when it goes beyond the normal 21 days waiting period. Fortunately, such occurrences are quite frequent. This is what it entails when your refund takes long and the possible reasons for the delay.
What does it mean if my refund takes more than 21 days to arrive?
In the event that more than three weeks have passed since the filing of your request for a tax refund from the IRS with no refund received, it is not necessary to assume that the refund has been lost. In most cases, refunds are issued in no more than 21 days. However, there are some common causes of delays:
- Incorrect Information or Incomplete Forms: If there are errors on your return or you omitted required information, this may necessitate a longer review by the IRS.
- Reviewable Claims: The making of a claim involving the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Child Tax Credit (CTC) may also take longer to process as it may take up to 90 or even 120 days in some situations.
- Security Concerns: The IRS may also halt the refund where there are fears that the refund could be fraudulent and that the taxpayer’s identity needs to be confirmed.
- Returns by Mail: Incase paper returns are submitted, processing may take a longer time – as much as six weeks, in fact, before one can receive any information on the IRS ‘Where’s My Refund?’ service.
- Bank and Mailing Challenges: There may be internal delays in the process due to problems with your bank or the postal service as well.
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How to check the status of my refund
The IRS provides tools to help you stay updated on your refund. The “Where’s My Refund?” website and the IRS2Go mobile app are the best resources for checking the status of your refund.
- For e-filed returns: Check the status 24 hours after submission.
- For paper-filed returns: Wait at least four weeks before checking.
The tool will show three stages: Return Received, Refund Approved, and Refund Sent. If your status is stuck at “Return Received,” it means the IRS is still processing it.
When should you contact the IRS?
There are specific instances when you should reach out to the IRS directly:
- More than 21 days have passed since e-filing.
- More than six weeks have passed since mailing your return.
- The “Where’s My Refund?” tool instructs you to call.
If any of these apply, contact the IRS at these numbers:
- For individuals: 800-829-1040
- For businesses: 800-829-4933
- Hearing-impaired assistance: 800-829-4059
When you call, be prepared to provide your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact amount of your refund.
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Is it possible to lose my refund?
Nevertheless, refunds can be lowered or denied for various reasons, including but not limited to the following:
- Off set for unpaid debts: In case of outstanding back taxes, child support or federal education loans, the IRS may utilize your tax rebate to pay off such debts.
- Unable to confirm identity: The IRS will not process your repayment until they can verify your identity.
How long can the IRS legally take to process my refund?
The IRS has a standard practice of processing the majority of refunds within 21 days but some circumstances can result in an extended period. The IRS may take up additional time for conducting assessments or seeking more information. Income tax refunds that are not processed more than 45 days after the return’s due date may accrue interest to the taxpayer through the IRS.
How can I apply for an ITIN number to apply for a tax refund from the IRS?
What should I do if my refund is delayed?
This are some things you can do:
- Check your return for errors. Revisit your tax return to make sure there are no mistakes.
- Use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool. Get the most updated information about your refund’s status.
- Contact the IRS if necessary. Only call if your delay meets the criteria mentioned earlier.
- Be patient. Refunds involving special credits or other issues may take additional time to resolve.
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