How Long Does It Take the IRS to Process a Tax Return?
Published on April 29, 2022
Updated on April 25, 2025
Reviewed by
Table of Contents
How long does the IRS take to process tax returns?
It depends on the manner in which you’ve submitted your tax return. Traditional paper mailing would take the IRS around 6-8 weeks because they’re processing it manually. Usually, that is also the same time when you can receive a tax refund if you have one.
It is a faster pace for electronically filed returns, and the IRS usually gives out a tax refund as quickly as 3 weeks from the submission date. This is mostly accurate when you have no errors in your tax return, have submitted it on time, and have no queries raised.
What happens after I submit my tax return?
After the IRS receives your tax return, they will typically acknowledge it and notify you via email within 24-48 hours for e-filed returns. That’s where you can start the timer. It will usually be a slower process for paper-filed returns, so it’s better to keep track of time once you’ve mailed your return.
The IRS then reviews your return to verify your personal information, check for errors, and ensure all necessary documents (such as IRS W-9 Form or Form 4852) match their records. If no issues are found, the return is approved, and if you are due a refund, it is processed for payment.
However, if discrepancies are discovered in your return, it may be flagged for a manual review, which can delay the process. At this point, the IRS will reach out to you and send a notice regarding the issue and you should amend it right away to prevent penalties.
Why is my tax return taking longer to process?
Here are common reasons as to why there might be a delay with your tax return and potential refund:
- Errors or incorrect information: Check your personal information, especially your TIN or SSN.
- Missing attachments: There may be missing documentation to support your declaration. These could be wage or tax statements, declarations of investments or proof of overseas accounts.
- Identity verification: This is usually the case if the IRS suspects you of fraud.
- Manual review: An additional step if your return was selected for an audit.
- Claiming certain credits: such as the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) or Foreign Tax Credit (FTC), as these need further verification.
It’s also important to note the huge IRS backlogs during peak tax season and staffing shortages can delay the process.
Why use the IRS Streamlined Tax Amnesty Program?
It’s for American citizens that didn’t know they had to file US tax returns each year, and have therefore fallen behind. Some more than 30 years! With the IRS Streamlined Procedure, say goodbye to overdue tax returns, late fees, and penalties.
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Will the IRS notify me of a refund delay?
Yes, if your return requires additional review due to errors, missing information, or potential fraud concerns, the IRS will send you a letter explaining the issue and any necessary actions you need to take. Here are some common notices for US expats:
- Notice of Tax Due (CP14 ): This is for unpaid taxes or if you incurred penalties due to erroneous information or missing payments, such as not filing the FBAR.
- Request for Additional Information (Notice 6091): This may be regarding missing attachments to support your claim in your tax return, such as foreign income or credits.
- Notice of Deficiency (Notice 3219): This is an audit notice for the taxes you owe. This comes with a 90-day deadline on whether you pay or appeal to the IRS.
How can I track my refund?
There are available tools that you can use to track your refund.
- “Where’s My Refund?” on the IRS website.
- IRS2Go mobile app, the official IRS app.
- Call the IRS Refund Hotline at 1-800-829-1954 if it has been longer than expected.
Can the IRS reduce my refund?
Yes, this can happen if you already owe them money. They offset your debt through your tax refund. Here are some of the things they can deduct:
- Unpaid federal or state taxes
- Child support
- Federal student loans in default
- Other government debts
In cases like this, you will receive a Notice of Offset from the IRS explaining the deduction.
What are the different ways I can receive my tax refund?
Here are some methods available for receiving tax refunds:
- Direct deposit: Usually the fastest of them all, you can expect your refund within 21 days.
- Paper check: This will be mailed to your address within a few months
- Prepaid debit card: This is usually available when you avail tax preparation services and for those without a bank account.
- IRS-issued US savings bonds: This is only available for federal tax refunds
- Applying your refund to next year’s taxes: If you expect to owe taxes in the following year, you can apply all or part of your refund toward your future tax liability, reducing what you owe next year.
Can I split my refund between multiple accounts?
Yes, you can split your federal refund into three different accounts using Form 8888 (Allocation of Refund). However, this is not possible for foreign accounts. You can only split your refund between up to three US financial institution accounts (such as checking, savings, or retirement).
How can I expedite the processing of my tax refund?
To get your refund as fast as possible:
- E-file your return instead of mailing it.
- Choose direct deposit instead of a check.
- Double-check your return for errors before submitting.
- Ensure all documents (W-9, Form 4852, etc.) are correct before filing.
Do federal and state tax refunds arrive together?
No, federal and state tax refunds do not arrive together because they are processed separately by different agencies. The IRS handles federal tax returns, while each state tax agency processes state returns independently.
State refunds can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on your state’s processing speed. You can visit your state’s tax agency website for a refund tracker or to check the status of your refund.
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