Rise Tax Pro

Waiting For Your Tax Refund

We understand how important your tax refund is and how eager you are to receive it. At Rise Tax Pro, we work hard to ensure your tax return is filed accurately and on time, but once it’s in the hands of the IRS, the process is out of our control. This page is designed to provide you with a detailed understanding of the tax refund process, answer common questions, and guide you through the timeline. We hope this helps reduce the need for frequent refund inquiries and keeps you informed at every step of the way.

The Tax Refund Process Explained

Once we submit your tax return, the IRS takes over the refund process. The time it takes to receive your refund varies depending on factors like the time of year, how you filed, and any additional review needed for specific credits or deductions.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what happens after filing:

IRS Acknowledgment of Your Return
When we file your return electronically, the IRS generally acknowledges receipt within 24 to 48 hours. At this point, your return enters the IRS system, and the refund process begins. If you filed by mail, this acknowledgment can take several weeks.

Processing Your Tax Return
Once acknowledged, the IRS begins processing your return, checking for accuracy and conducting additional reviews if necessary, especially for credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit. This processing stage typically takes between 7 and 21 days for e-filed returns but may extend during peak season or if issues arise.

Refund Approved
After processing, the IRS approves your refund, meaning they have finished reviewing your return and are preparing to issue it. If there are no errors, this step is often completed quickly.

Refund Sent
Once approved, your refund is sent through your chosen method—direct deposit or mailed check. Direct deposits generally arrive within 1 to 5 business days, while mailed checks may take an additional two weeks or more. If you opted for our Refund Transfer service, your refund will first go to a secure bank, which deducts the tax preparation fees before forwarding the balance to you, potentially adding a 1-2 day delay.

Why Is My Refund Delayed?
While most refunds are issued on time, there are a few common reasons for delays:

  • Errors on Your Tax Return: Simple mistakes, like incorrect Social Security numbers or math errors, can slow down processing.

  • Claiming Certain Credits: Refunds that include the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) are delayed until mid-February due to anti-fraud regulations.

  • Additional IRS Review: The IRS may select your return for further review if information doesn’t align with their records. This review could add weeks or even months to processing.

  • Outstanding Debts: If you owe federal or state taxes, child support, or other federal debts, the IRS may apply your refund to these balances, delaying or reducing your refund.

How Long Should I Wait Before Checking My Refund Status?
Although it’s tempting to check your refund status frequently, we recommend waiting at least 24 hours after e-filing, or 4 weeks if you mailed your return, before checking. The IRS updates its system daily, typically overnight, so checking multiple times a day won’t expedite the process. To check your refund status, visit the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund” tool on their website or use the IRS2Go mobile app.

What Happens if There Are Issues with My Refund?
In some cases, the IRS may require additional information to process your return and will send you a notice explaining what’s needed. Promptly responding to IRS notices can prevent further delays. Common issues include:

  • Verification of Income or Credits: The IRS may request additional documentation to verify your income, dependents, or eligibility for certain credits.

  • Identity Verification: If there is a suspicion of identity theft or fraud, the IRS may ask you to verify your identity.

If you receive a notice, our team at Rise Tax Pro is here to assist you with responses and guide you through the process.

Common FAQs About Tax Refunds

  1. How long does it take to receive my refund?
    For e-filed returns with direct deposit, most refunds are issued within 21 days. Mailed returns and paper checks take longer.

  2. I filed my taxes weeks ago, why haven’t I received my refund?
    Delays may occur due to processing, reviews, or outstanding issues. Check the status with the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund” tool.

  3. I claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC). When will I get my refund?
    By law, the IRS cannot issue refunds for returns claiming these credits until mid-February, regardless of when the return was filed.

  4. Can I check my refund status multiple times a day?
    Although you can check as often as you like, the IRS only updates their system once daily. Checking once per day is sufficient.

By understanding the IRS refund process and the potential for delays, you can manage your expectations and stay informed throughout the tax season.

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Still Have Questions? Contact Us!

You can count on us for professional, timely and reliable tax and accounting services. If you’re ready to get started, just fill out this form and we’ll be in touch.

2440 Texas Parkway
Missouri City, Texas 77489
(310) 722-2522
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You can count on us for professional, timely, and reliable tax and accounting services. If you’re ready to get started, just fill out this form and we’ll be in touch.

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