Tax refund delays do happen to some taxpayers each year, but it’s difficult to say how many individuals are impacted by the issue. In general, most tax refunds are processed and issued within 21 days of filing, so delays beyond that timeframe are less common.
There are a few reasons why a tax refund may be delayed, such as:
- Errors or omissions on your tax return
- Issues with your tax return, such as inconsistencies or discrepancies
- Identity theft or fraud
- Processing delays at the IRS
- Withholding of your refund to pay off other debts, such as back taxes or child support
If your tax refund is delayed, there are a few steps you can take:
Check your refund status: You can check the status of your refund using the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on the IRS website.
Contact the IRS: If it has been more than 21 days since you filed your tax return electronically or more than 6 weeks since you mailed your tax return and you have not received your refund or any correspondence from the IRS, you can contact them for assistance.
Verify your information: Make sure your personal information, such as your name, social security number, and bank account information, is accurate on your tax return.
Be patient: Refund delays can be frustrating, but in many cases, they are temporary and will be resolved without issue.
The IRS is aware of the issue of tax refund delays and is working to address the problem. They have implemented measures such as increased staffing, improved technology, and enhanced fraud detection tools to help expedite the processing of tax refunds. However, delays can still occur due to a variety of factors. If you’re experiencing a delay in your tax refund, it’s best to contact the IRS for assistance.