Introduction
Hey readers,
Are you among the millions of Americans who are still waiting for their 2020 tax refunds? If you have filed your taxes and it has been 21 days since you e-filed or 6 weeks since you mailed your return, you may be wondering what is taking so long. In this article, we will explore the reasons why your tax refund may be delayed and provide you with some steps you can take to track the status of your refund and get it processed faster.
Reasons for Delays
Processing Backlog: The IRS is currently experiencing a significant backlog in processing tax returns due to several factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led to reduced staffing and disruptions in operations.
Errors in Tax Returns: Mistakes or missing information on your tax return can also delay processing. Errors such as incorrect Social Security numbers, math errors, or incomplete forms can trigger additional review and delays.
Suspected Fraud: If the IRS suspects that your tax return contains fraudulent activity, it will be flagged for additional scrutiny, which can further delay processing.
Offset for Debts: If you owe money to the IRS or other federal or state agencies, the IRS may offset your tax refund to cover those debts. This will result in a smaller refund or no refund at all.
What to Do
Check the IRS Where’s My Refund Tool: This online tool allows you to track the status of your refund. You will need to enter your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact amount of your refund.
Call the IRS: If you are unable to track your refund online, you can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. Be prepared to provide your Social Security number, filing status, and the amount of your refund.
Consider Filing an amended Return: If you believe there is an error on your tax return, you can file an amended return using Form 1040X. This can help correct any errors and potentially speed up the processing of your refund.
Refund Timeline
The following table provides an estimated timeline for tax refunds for the 2020 tax year:
| Filing Method | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| E-file and direct deposit | 21 days |
| E-file and mailed check | 6 weeks |
| Mailed tax return and direct deposit | 6 weeks |
| Mailed tax return and mailed check | 8 weeks |
Conclusion
If you have been waiting for your 2020 tax refund for more than 8 months, it is important to take action. Use the steps outlined in this article to track the status of your refund and contact the IRS if necessary. You can also consider filing an amended return if you believe there is an error on your original return. Remember to check out our other articles for more information on tax refunds and other financial topics.
FAQ about 8 Months and Still No Tax Refund 2020
Why haven’t I received my tax refund after 8 months?
- Your refund may be delayed due to:
- Errors on your tax return
- Missing information
- IRS verifying your return
How can I check the status of my refund?
- Use the "Where’s My Refund?" tool on the IRS website: https://www.irs.gov/refunds
What should I do if I think there’s an error?
- Contact the IRS by phone or mail to inquire about the delay.
Is it possible to get my refund faster?
- You can request an expedited refund by filing Form 15655.
What if the IRS says my refund was mailed but I didn’t receive it?
- File Form 3911: Taxpayer Statement Regarding Refund.
Can I file an amended tax return to update my information?
- Yes, you can file an amended return (Form 1040-X) to correct any errors or missing information.
How long does it usually take to process an amended return?
- It can take up to 16 weeks for the IRS to process an amended return.
What should I do if I receive a notice from the IRS regarding my refund?
- Review the notice carefully and follow the instructions it provides.
Can I get help from a tax professional?
- Yes, you can contact a tax preparer, accountant, or enrolled agent for assistance.
What is the deadline to file my taxes?
- The tax filing deadline for 2020 taxes is April 15, 2022.
