The IRS issues most refunds quickly. In fact, the IRS generally processes 9 out of 10 electronically filed tax returns within 21 days. However, some returns require additional review, which can delay a refund.
If it's been more than 21 days since you filed and you haven't received your refund, there may be a specific reason for the delay.
Common Reasons Your Refund May Be Taking Longer
Your return may require additional processing if it:
- Was filed on paper instead of electronically
- Contains errors or missing information
- Includes incorrect credit or deduction claims
- Requires additional IRS review
- Shows signs of identity theft or tax fraud
- Includes the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)
- Includes Form 8379, Injured Spouse Allocation, which can take up to 14 weeks to process
Remember, a delayed refund doesn't automatically mean there's a problem with your return. Sometimes the IRS simply needs more time to verify information before releasing your refund.
Refund Delays for EITC and ACTC Claims
If your return includes the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), a delay may be completely normal.
Under the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act, the IRS cannot issue refunds for returns claiming either credit before mid-February. This applies to your entire refund, not just the portion related to the credit.
According to current IRS guidance, taxpayers claiming the EITC or ACTC can generally expect their refunds by early March if:
- The return was filed electronically
- Direct deposit was selected
- No processing issues are found on the return
The IRS recommends checking the status of your refund through its online tools for the most accurate refund date. Refund timing can also be affected by weekends, holidays, and bank processing times.
What Should You Do If Your Refund Is Delayed?
1. Review Your Tax Return
Double-check the information on your return. Missing forms, incorrect Social Security numbers, calculation errors, or incorrect banking information can all slow down processing.
If the IRS cannot verify the information provided, additional review may be required before your refund can be issued.
2. Check Your Refund Status Online
Use the IRS Where's My Refund? tool to track your refund status.
This tool can help you:
- See whether the IRS has received your return
- View your expected refund date
- Learn whether the IRS needs additional information
- Find out if your refund amount has changed
The IRS typically updates refund information once each day, usually overnight.
3. Contact the IRS If Necessary
If your electronically filed return has been processing for more than 21 days, you may want to contact the IRS at 800-829-1040 or reach out to your local IRS office.
The IRS may need you to:
- Verify your identity
- Confirm information reported on your return
- Verify banking details for your refund deposit
Have a copy of your tax return available when you call.
If you chose to have tax preparation fees deducted from your refund or requested your refund on a prepaid debit card, the banking information associated with your refund may not match your personal bank account. This is normal and may require additional verification.
Bottom Line
Most tax refunds arrive within 21 days, but certain situations can extend processing times. Returns that include refundable credits such as the EITC or ACTC, require identity verification, contain errors, or are filed on paper often take longer.
When in doubt, check the IRS Where's My Refund? tool first. It is usually the fastest way to learn whether your return is still being processed or if the IRS needs additional information from you.