The IRS refund processing time is set to run out soon. While many citizens have already started receiving their tax refunds, some citizens are still awaiting their tax refunds to be processed. Several factors can be attributed to the delay in tax refunds, including filing errors, identity verification processes, and perhaps even changed returns. The last batch of IRS refunds is said to go out this June, and citizens who are eagerly awaiting their refunds should act immediately.
Citizens should verify their refund status
Citizens will know if they will be receiving their refunds with the final batch of refunds going out this June if they simply make use of the “Where’s My Refund?” tool. With this tool, the refund status is updated daily, so citizens can be regularly updated with this information.
Citizens can use their Social Security number or their ITIN when utilizing this tool, which will confirm their respective filing status as well as the refund they are due to receive. Citizens who e-filed can check their filing status after 24 hours; however, citizens who filed their tax returns by paper will have to wait for four weeks before refunds are received. Returns filed by paper will take about a month to arrive; however, returns that were e-filed are usually processed within 21 days.
Citizens should take more drastic action in cases when their returns were accepted a few weeks ago, but their refund status has not yet been updated via the “Where’s My Refund?” tool.
Understanding the reasons behind possible refund delays
Most citizens eagerly await their tax refunds; however, there could be a considerable number of reasons why IRS refunds could be delayed. Some refund inquiries addressed by the IRS indicate that reasons for delayed refunds could be attributed to:
- Identities not verified: Citizens who received IRS letters 5071C or 4883C may need to verify their identities to receive their refunds.
- Respective tax filing errors: Due to incorrectly mentioned credits or income queries, a taxpayer’s refund may be delayed due to such errors.
- Paper returns provoking the delay: Delays can also be caused since paper-filed returns take longer to process than returns that were e-filed.
- Manual reviews: When tax returns require further scrutiny, manual reviews get triggered.
- PATH Act: Causes delays in refunds, particularly for citizens claiming either the Additional Child Tax Credit or the Earned Income Credit.
According to the warning from the IRS, many returns can take at least 120 days to process when certain amendments or identity verification are required. There are many reasons why IRS refunds for certain months could be delayed, and citizens are recommended to remain patient in these cases.
When further action may be required due to delayed refunds?
Citizens awaiting their refund payments for over 2 months may want to rope in the Taxpayer’s Advocate Service for assistance. Taxpayers can also take action by:
- Verifying their identity after following all instructions provided via email and either verifying online or going in to verify their identities.
- Considering the IRS transcript, especially in cases where returns are under review, being processed, or have been issued already.
- Reviewing tax filing account by making use of tax software or professionals who can assist with checking your filing status and confirming if the return has been accepted.
The Taxpayer’s Advocate Service is surely another way for citizens (awaiting tax refunds since the end of May) to gain the answers they need. The main thing for taxpayers to keep in mind is that if their tax refunds have not yet reached their accounts and they filed a while ago, they should not wait until July to take action.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax advice. It does not replace IRS guidance or official notices. To confirm your eligibility or payment status, click the IRS‑linked resources in our article or log in to your IRS online account; for personalized advice, consult a qualified tax professional.
