Filing your tax return is an important financial task, and most taxpayers eagerly anticipate their refund. Understanding the process can help ensure you receive your money as quickly as possible. Below, we answer common questions about tax refunds, tracking your refund status, and potential delays.
When Can You Expect Your Tax Refund?
The timeframe for receiving your refund depends on how you file your tax return. If you e-file and choose direct deposit, you can expect your refund faster—usually within 21 days. However, if you file a paper return, it may take six weeks or more.
The IRS provides the following general guidelines for refund processing times:
E-filed return with direct deposit: 21 days
E-filed return with a paper check: 4-6 weeks
Paper return with direct deposit: 4-6 weeks
Paper return with a paper check: 6-8 weeks
Keep in mind, these timeframes may change due to IRS processing delays, holidays, or increased filing volumes.
How Can You Track Your Refund Status?
You can check the status of your refund using the IRS "Where’s My Refund?" tool on the IRS website. To track your refund, you need the following information:
Your Social Security number or ITIN
Your filing status (single, married filing jointly, etc.)
Your exact refund amount
You can also track your refund through the IRS2Go mobile app or by calling the IRS refund hotline. If you filed electronically, your status should be available within 24 hours. If you mailed your return, allow four weeks before checking.
What Factors Can Delay Your Refund?
Several issues may slow down your refund processing, including:
1. Errors on Your Tax Return
If there are errors in your return, such as incorrect Social Security numbers, mismatched income figures, or missing information, the IRS will need additional time to process your refund.
2. Identity Theft or Fraud
If the IRS detects possible fraud or identity theft, they may place a hold on your refund while verifying your identity. You may receive a security notice requesting additional details.
3. Filing a Paper Return
A paper return takes longer to process than an e-filed return. To receive your refund faster, file electronically and opt for direct deposit.
4. Owing Child Support, Back Taxes, or Other Debts
If you owe past-due child support, unpaid income tax, or federal debts such as student loans, the IRS may use your refund to pay these obligations. You will receive a notice explaining the offset.
5. Issues With Your Bank Account
If your financial institution rejected your direct deposit refund due to an incorrect account or routing number, the IRS will mail a refund check to the taxpayer’s address on file.
What If Your Refund Goes to the Wrong Account?
If you mistakenly entered the wrong account number when filing, the IRS cannot recover the money once it has been deposited. You will need to contact the financial institution to request a reversal. If the bank cannot return the funds, you must notify the IRS and file a claim using Form 3911.
To avoid this issue, always double-check your bank account and routing numbers before submitting your return.
Can You Split Your Refund Between Multiple Accounts?
Yes, the IRS allows you to direct deposit your refund into up to three accounts using Form 8888. However, you cannot split it between a joint account and a single financial account in your own name.
What If You Move Before Receiving Your Refund?
If you change your taxpayer’s address after filing, the IRS will mail your refund check to the old address unless you update your information. To update your address, you can:
File Form 8822 to officially change your address
Contact the IRS and provide your new details
Notify your financial institution if receiving a direct deposit
What If Your Refund Is Lower Than Expected?
If your refund check is smaller than expected, the IRS may have adjusted your return due to child support, debts, or math errors. You will receive a notice explaining the changes. If you disagree, you can file a request for reconsideration.
What Happens If You Don’t Receive Your Refund?
If your refund has not arrived within the expected timeframe, check your refund status using the IRS tracking tool. If the tool shows the refund was issued but you have not received it, you may need to:
Verify your bank account information if you opted for a direct deposit refund
Confirm your mailing address if expecting a paper check
File Form 3911 to report a missing refund
Final Thoughts
Understanding these tax refund FAQs can help you navigate the refund process smoothly. Filing your tax return accurately and choosing direct deposit ensures you receive your refund as quickly as possible. If delays occur, check your refund status, verify your bank account, and ensure your taxpayer’s address is correct.
For additional assistance, contact Poston, Denney, & Killpack, CPA. We’re here to help you with all your taxes, ensuring you get the money you deserve without unnecessary delays.
