How Long Will It Take to Receive My Tax Refund?
The matter of how long it will take to receive your tax refund depends on how you file – in addition to other variables – but even if you file a paper copy through the mail, you can expect to have your refund within six to eight weeks – according to the IRS. An important element of this, however, is ensuring that you file a complete, accurate, and timely tax return, which protects your financial rights and allows you to maximize the refund amount. Tax season is upon us, so don’t wait to reach out for the professional guidance of an experienced Pennsylvania tax consultant today.
The Basics
If you file a paper return in the mail, you can expect to have your tax refund within six to eight weeks of the IRS receiving it. If you file your tax return electronically, you should have your refund within three weeks. If you opt for direct deposit, however, you can have your refund more quickly.
Direct deposit into your bank account – because there isn’t a physical check to get lost in the mail – is considered the most secure option. It also takes the Treasury less time to issue a direct deposit than it does to cut a paper check. It’s important to note, however, that even if you file a paper return, you can still choose the direct deposit option by filling in the required information in the tax form’s Refund section.
If You’ve Been Waiting at Least 4 Weeks
If it’s been at least four weeks since you filed your tax return, you can call the IRS TeleTax System at 1-800-829-4477. At this point, you’ll need to provide specific information in order to access your filing, including:
- The first social security number that is listed on your return – if you filed jointly
- Your filing status
- The amount of your refund
In other words, you’ll need to have this information on hand to proceed. If your tax return has already been processed by the IRS, the system will provide you with the date it will be sent. Keep in mind that the system is updated every weekend, which means you should plan your call accordingly.
Refund Delays: Common Causes
The IRS shares the following common causes for refund delays:
- When the filer’s name and social security number on the tax return doesn’t match IRS records
- When the filer fails to sign the return, which happens more often than you may realize
- When the filer fails to include required attachments, such as the necessary W-2 form
- When the filer fails to calculate the return correctly and therefore enters amounts that are in error
Turn to an Experienced Pennsylvania Tax Consultant for the Help You’re Looking For
The accomplished Pennsylvania tax professionals at Phoenix Tax Consultants are standing by to help you file your return correctly, which helps to ensure that you’ll receive your refund more quickly. When you work with us, you gain the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re in good financial hands. For more information about what we can do to help you, please don’t delay contacting us online or call 610-933-3507 today.