The information in this article is up to date for tax year 2024 (returns filed in 2025).
With the average tax refund totaling around $3,000, it’s no wonder that most people eagerly await their refund to help cover everything from building savings to paying off debt or day-to-day expenses. The IRS typically issues most tax refunds within 21 days when you e-file and choose direct deposit. However, there are several common reasons why your tax refund might be delayed.
Common Reasons for Tax Refund Delays
1. You Made a Mistake on Your Tax Return
Accuracy is crucial when filing your tax return. Even a small mistake can lead to tax refund delays. Whether it’s an incorrect Social Security number, a miscalculated deduction, or a missed form, the IRS may need extra time to process your tax return. The best way to minimize errors is by using reliable tax software like ezTaxReturn. The program guides you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you input the correct information exactly as it appears on your tax documents. Always double-check your entries to ensure everything is accurate and complete.
2. You Owe Money
While your tax return may show that you’re due a refund, the IRS has the authority to withhold part or all of it to pay off certain debts. If you owe past-due federal or state taxes, child support, or have unpaid federal student loans, the IRS can offset your tax refund to cover those debts. If your refund is seized for any reason, you’ll receive a notice from the IRS explaining the situation. Any remaining balance will be sent to you via direct deposit or a check in the mail. For non-tax debt offsets, the Bureau of the Fiscal Service (BFS) handles the process.
3. Incorrect Direct Deposit Information
Providing incorrect banking information when filing your tax return could tax refund delays. Returning ezTaxReturn customers may have their direct deposit information imported from the previous year, but if you’ve recently switched banks or changed your account details, be sure to update your bank account and routing numbers. You can find this information at the bottom of your personal check: the 9-digit number on the left is your routing number, and the number next to it is your account number. If your refund cannot be deposited, the IRS will mail you a paper check instead. In the event of an incorrect deposit, you’ll need to contact your bank for assistance.
4. Claims for Tax Credits
If you’re claiming tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Child Tax Credit, it can cause delays in processing your tax refund. These tax credits are designed to provide financial relief, but the IRS is required to take extra time to ensure everything is accurate before issuing refunds that include these credits.
For instance, the IRS can’t issue refunds for returns claiming the EITC or Child Tax Credit before mid-February, due to a law meant to prevent fraud. This extra time allows the IRS to review returns and ensure eligibility for these credits. As a result, if you filed early in the tax season and claimed one of these credits, your tax refund might be delayed, even if you e-filed and selected direct deposit.
Although this can be frustrating, it’s important to know that this delay is for fraud prevention purposes, and once the IRS has verified your information, your tax refund will be processed. If you’re claiming credits like these, be prepared for a slightly longer wait. Keep an eye on your refund status using the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool for updates.
5. You Mailed Your Return
If you filed a paper return, expect a longer wait for your tax refund. Paper returns are processed more slowly, and due to IRS backlogs, you might experience delays of 6 months or more. To avoid this, always e-file your tax return and opt for direct deposit. Filing online is fast, efficient, and can get your tax refund to you within 21 days in most cases. Start now.
6. The IRS Suspects Identity Theft or Fraud
If the IRS suspects that someone has filed a fraudulent return using your identity, they will delay your tax refund until they can confirm it’s really you. If this happens, you’ll likely receive an IRS notice (such as a 5071C or 6331C letter) with instructions on how to verify your identity. You can follow the instructions in the letter, call the number provided, or use the Identity Verification Service on the IRS website to confirm your identity. Until this verification process is completed, your tax refund will be delayed.
How to Check the Status of Your Refund
If you’re wondering where your tax refund is, the IRS provides a handy tool to check its status. Simply visit the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” page to track your refund status. This tool is updated once a day, typically overnight, so checking frequently won’t speed up the process.
You can also check your refund status through the IRS2Go app, available for download on your smartphone. This app allows you to securely track your tax refund, access your tax records, and get information on IRS processing times.
If you prefer to speak directly with someone, you can contact the IRS by phone. However, note that phone wait times can be long, especially during peak filing periods. Using the online tools is generally quicker and more efficient.
What to Do if Your Refund Is Taking Too Long
If your tax refund is taking longer than expected, first verify that your tax return was filed correctly. If you made a mistake or the IRS is reviewing your return due to identity theft or fraud, it could take longer to process. If it’s been several weeks beyond the expected processing time, you can take the following steps:
- Check the Status: Use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool or the IRS2Go app to see if there are any updates on your refund status.
- Verify Your Information: Double-check that you’ve provided the correct direct deposit information and that there are no errors in your tax return.
- Contact the IRS: If your tax refund is delayed for more than 21 days after e-filing, or if you received a notice from the IRS that requires action, you can call the IRS for assistance. Be prepared for long wait times, especially during peak periods.
Tips for Avoiding Tax Refund Delays in the Future
To help ensure your tax refund arrives as quickly as possible in the future, follow these tips:
- Double-check Your Return for Errors: Review your tax return carefully before submitting. Mistakes on your tax return—such as incorrect Social Security numbers, misspelled names, or missing information—can lead to delays in processing.
- File Electronically: Filing your tax return electronically is the fastest way to get your tax refund. The IRS processes e-filed returns much quicker than paper returns. Use ezTaxReturn to ensure your return is submitted quickly and accurately.
- Choose Direct Deposit: Opt for direct deposit instead of receiving a paper check. Direct deposit is faster, more secure, and reduces the likelihood of issues with lost or delayed checks.
- File Early: Filing early not only gives you peace of mind, but it also helps avoid tax refund delays that may arise during peak filing times.
By following these simple steps, you can avoid common pitfalls and get your tax refund faster in the future..
Conclusion
There are several reasons your tax refund might be delayed, but understanding these common causes can help you better manage your expectations. Whether it’s an error on your tax return, an issue with direct deposit, or identity verification, most delays can be resolved with a little patience and attention
Still need to file? Start your tax return today with ezTaxReturn. It’s fast, easy, and you’ll get the biggest possible refund, guaranteed.
The articles and content published on this blog are provided for informational purposes only. The information presented is not intended to be, and should not be taken as, legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers are advised to seek appropriate professional guidance and conduct their own due diligence before making any decisions based on the information provided.
