The IRS states that 9 out of 10 refunds are processed within 21 days from the date the return is accepted. However, 2020 and 2021 were not a normal years for processing returns. This was due to the stimulus payments that had to be reconciled on the tax return (2020 & 2021), Advance Child Tax Credit payments (2021), and the late date Unemployment exclusion rules (2020).
Manual entry errors of these amounts caused the IRS to review the return by hand and slow the processing of returns.
How can I track my refund?
To track your refund please log in to your account and go to the MY ACCOUNT screen. Once your return is accepted you can click the "Track Refund" link right next to the status of the return. This will take you to the IRS site for tracking your refund. In some cases, the refund information is not available for 24-48 hours after the return is accepted.
Will you tell me if my return is accepted?
Generally, once your return is e-filed you will receive an acknowledgement email within 48 hours. This email will let you know if your return was accepted or rejected.
Once the IRS has accepted your return, the amount of time that it will take to actually receive a refund may vary.
For the most up to date information regarding your refund date, visit the IRS website.
What if my return is rejected?
If your return is rejected, you can simply login to your account, make the corrections, and resubmit your return at no additional charge (for the same forms).
- If your deadline is April 15 and your return gets rejected, you have until April 20 to get the return accepted. Generally, as long as your original e-file was submitted prior to the April 15 deadline and the return is accepted by April 20, your return is still considered timely. If your return is accepted after that date, it is considered late.
- If your deadline is October 15 (because you filed an extension), and your original submission is rejected you have until October 20 to get your return accepted by the IRS. Generally, as long as your original e-file was submitted prior to the October 15 deadline and the return is accepted by October 20, your return is still considered timely. However, unlike April 15 filers, if you are unable to get your return accepted by October 20, you will not be able to e-file your return. Unfortunately, the IRS completely stops accepting electronically transmitted returns at that time. If you are unable to get your return accepted by the IRS prior to October 20, you will have to mail your return in.
If you owe on your tax return, the amount due must be paid by April 15th to be considered on time no matter if the return is rejected or an extension is filed. Extensions allow you extra time to file your return but any amount owed is still due by April 15th.