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Delayed Tax Refunds for Millions: Guidance for U.S. Citizens Awaiting Their Returns

Delayed 2025 Tax Refunds: A Shared Struggle for 47 Million US Citizens. Here's the Lowdown.

Over 47 million U.S. citizens still awaiting their tax refunds; advice for those left in limbo.
Over 47 million U.S. citizens still awaiting their tax refunds; advice for those left in limbo.

Delayed Tax Refunds for Millions: Guidance for U.S. Citizens Awaiting Their Returns

Hey there! Still waiting on that tax refund, huh? Approximately 47 million American taxpayers find themselves in the same boat. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know to check the status of your refund and understand potential hurdles in the process:

Refund Timeline: E-File vs. Paper Return

The IRS processes e-filed returns quicker than paper returns*. Below are the typical timeframes:

  • E-Filed Returns: Refunds are usually issued within approximately 21 days after the IRS accepts the return. If you go for direct deposit, expect your refund in less than three weeks.
  • Paper Returns: Processing these can take around 6-8 weeks. Paper checks might take up to two months.

Factors Affecting Refund Delays

Several factors can delay the processing of your refund:

  • High IRS workload: During peak seasons, backlogs can build up, especially for paper returns.
  • IRS system issues: Occasional delays in IRS electronic payment processing may impact refund issuance.
  • Errors or incomplete returns: Returns with mistakes, missing information, or requiring extra review might experience delays.
  • Identity verification: The IRS may hold refunds for additional verification if identity theft or fraud is suspected.
  • Late or amended returns: Late filings or amended returns take longer to process and issue refunds.
  • External disruptions: Past disruptions caused by pandemics or staffing shortages have contributed to delays, but recent years have shown improvement.

To stay up-to-date on your refund status, use the Where's My Refund? tool on the IRS website. Enter your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact refund amount from your return to track your refund's progress.

  • Refund Received: Your refund is being processed.
  • Refund Approved: The IRS is preparing to issue your refund by the shown date.
  • Refund Sent: Your refund has been sent to your bank or is being mailed.

Anticipated Refund Dates

According to the Taxpayer Advocate, taxpayers who are still waiting for their tax refund may receive it between June 20 and 24:

  • For those who filed electronically, expect your refund between June 20 and the date specified according to when you filed:
    • Taxpayers who filed on May 30: June 20
    • Taxpayers who filed on May 31: June 21
    • Taxpayers who filed on June 1: June 22
    • Taxpayers who filed on June 2: June 23
    • Taxpayers who filed on June 3: June 24
  • Paper check recipients, look for your refund between June 20 and the date shown according to when you filed:
    • Paper return filed on May 8: June 20
    • Paper return filed on May 9: June 21
    • Paper return filed from May 10 to June 22: Delay varies based on when the return was filed.
    • Paper return filed from May 11 to June 23: Delay varies based on when the return was filed.
    • Paper return filed on May 12: June 24
  • If you're experiencing a delay in receiving your tax refund due to personal-finance factors, the IRS system, errors in your return, or identity verification, consider using the 'Where's My Refund?' tool on the IRS website for updates.
  • To ensure prompt processing of your refund and possibly speed up its arrival, it might be beneficial to consider e-filing your personal-finance taxes, as this method typically results in quicker refund issuance compared to paper returns.

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