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 for your tax refund can feel like forever. This article explains how to track your refund status and what steps to take if it hasn’t arrived when you expect it. We’ll focus on tools like the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” and other important info to help you understand the process.

Key Takeaways

  • Use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool to check your refund status.
  • Expect delays if you filed a paper return or claimed certain credits.
  • Contact the IRS if your refund is significantly delayed.
  • Understand that amended returns take longer to process.

Using the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” Tool

The quickest way to check your tax refund status is by using the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool, which you can find linked from here. It’s available on the IRS website and as a mobile app, IRS2Go. You’ll need your Social Security number or ITIN, filing status, and the exact refund amount you expected. The tool updates once every 24 hours, usually overnight, so checking multiple times a day won’t give you different information.

Understanding Refund Timelines

The IRS typically issues most refunds within 21 calendar days after receiving your return. However, some returns may take longer to process. If you filed electronically, you can usually start checking your refund status within 24 hours. If you filed a paper return, it can take about four weeks to show up in the system. Certain tax credits, like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), may also cause delays due to extra fraud prevention measures.

Reasons for Potential Delays

Several factors can cause your refund to be delayed. Common reasons include errors on your tax return, incomplete information, or suspected identity theft. If you filed an amended return, processing times are significantly longer, often taking several months. The IRS also might delay refunds if they need to review your return further, perhaps due to discrepancies or if you owe other taxes.

What to Do If Your Refund Is Taking Too Long

If it’s been more than 21 days since you filed electronically, or more than six weeks since you mailed your paper return, and you haven’t received your refund, you can contact the IRS. Before calling, make sure you have a copy of your tax return handy. You can use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool, as we said before, or call the IRS directly, but be prepared for potentially long wait times. It’s worth noting that the IRS won’t be able to provide much information beyond what’s already available online unless it’s been a significant amount of time.

Amended Returns and Processing Times

Filing an amended tax return (Form 1040-X) means the normal refund timelines don’t apply. Amended returns require manual processing, which can take considerably longer—often 16 weeks or more. You can track the status of your amended return using the “Where’s My Amended Return?” tool on the IRS website. Keep in mind, updates might be infrequent, so patience is key.

Understanding IRS Notices

If the IRS needs more information or has made adjustments to your return, they’ll send you a notice or letter. Read these carefully and respond promptly, if necessary. The notice will explain the issue and what steps you need to take. Ignoring the notice can lead to further delays or even penalties. Sometimes, they just need you to verify your identity or clarify certain information.

Filing Back Taxes and Refunds

Did you know that you may be owed money from previous years? You can still file back taxes and claim a refund, usually within a certain timeframe. Check out more info on how many years back you can file taxes. However, unclaimed refunds can eventually revert to the U.S. Treasury, so don’t delay! Also be aware of how things like Form 8888 might affect your refund splitting or allocation.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The IRS typically issues most refunds within 21 calendar days if you file electronically. Paper returns can take longer.

What info do I need to check my refund status?

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

What if I filed an amended return?

Amended returns take significantly longer to process, often several months.

What should I do if my refund is delayed?

Use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool. If it’s been more than 21 days since filing electronically or six weeks since mailing a paper return, contact the IRS.

Can I still get a refund if I file back taxes?

Yes, you can file back taxes and claim a refund within a specific timeframe. But don’t wait too long!

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