What to Do If Your Tax Refund Is Delayed?

Amherst, NH Resident Needs Help

If you have not yet received your tax refund, you can track this on the IRS’s web site at https://www.irs.gov/refunds  You will need your social security number and the exact dollar amount of the refund that you are expecting.  It isn’t unusual for refunds to be delayed, particularly those that were filed closer to the tax deadline.  If there is a discrepancy on your tax return or missing documents, this will slow down your refund as the IRS works with the filer to rectify this.

An Amherst resident was concerned that she had not yet received her tax refund.  She contacted the team at Merrimack Tax Associates for assistance.

IRS Backlogs Will Likely Slow Tax Refunds

The IRS continues to struggle with backlogs from the pandemic.  In addition, major tax changes like the recovery rebate credit and child tax credit have further complicated many of these returns.  Those claiming these tax credits can expect a longer period before they receive their refund. The order in which your tax return was received will also affect processing, with any missing or incorrect information adding even more delays.  If your tax refund was mailed, this can delay your refund as it will take longer for the IRS to receive the documents.

Contacting the IRS About Your Tax Refund

The easiest way to check on the status of your tax refund is by using the IRS’ “Where’s My Refund?” tool.  This can be accessed online through the IRS web site or by downloading the IRS2Go app.  The status of your refund can be available in 24 hours of e-filing but if you mail in your return you will need to allow four to six weeks from the mailing date.

The IRS does have a call center available, but it is extremely backlogged and should be a last resort for checking on your tax refund.  In some instances, online tracking of your refund may recommend that you call the IRS for status.

The Amherst resident was able to track her refund using the “Where’s My Refund?” tool.  She now has a good idea of when she can expect to receive her money.