How long will my tax refund be delayed?

Asked by: Halle Pagac Jr.  |  Last update: September 27, 2026
Score: 4.1/5 (8 votes)

If you filed your taxes late, your refund will generally take longer, often around 90 days or more, because late or missing returns need more processing time than on-time e-filed returns, but you should check the IRS Where's My Refund tool using your SSN, filing status, and exact refund amount for the most accurate status, though it can take longer if your return needs extra review.

How long are tax refunds delayed?

You are not required to register to use this service. Before calling about your refund, please allow time for the Department to process your refund claim. Generally, electronically filed returns claiming a refund are processed in 6 to 8 weeks. A paper return claiming a refund takes 8 to 12 weeks to process.

What is the longest wait time for a tax refund?

There's no strict maximum limit for how long the IRS can hold a refund, but they must pay interest after 45 days; while most e-filed returns take 21 days, returns needing extra review for errors, fraud, or certain credits (like EITC/ACTC) can take months (45-180+ days), and amended returns can take 8-16 weeks, with unfiled returns having an indefinite delay until filed. 

Should I be worried if my refund is delayed at the IRS?

One small mistake and you're getting delayed. Yes, you should call the IRS every six to eight weeks to check on your status, but don't call too often. Reaching out too much can actually push your refund further back because every inquiry can restart the process. The Taxpayer Advocate line is limited too.

How long are MN state tax refunds taking?

Minnesota's state income tax refunds are generally fast, often arriving in about a week (7 days) for e-filed returns with direct deposit, though sometimes as quickly as a few days; however, paper returns or those needing extra review can take several weeks or longer, with delays possible due to errors, identity verification, or scams, so checking the "Where's My Refund?" tool on the MN Dept of Revenue site is best for status updates. 

Why is my tax refund delayed 2022?

27 related questions found

What can delay my MN tax refund?

Incorrect names or Social Security Numbers can delay your refund. Double-check bank routing and account numbers used on tax forms. Incorrect account numbers can delay your refund. Complete each form and carry totals to the correct lines.

What day of the week do refunds get deposited?

The IRS issues refunds only on business days. However, some banks may post deposits on Saturdays if funds are received late on a Friday.

Does delayed refund mean audit?

The IRS can hold your refund and request more information from you in several situations, causing IRS refund delays. This doesn't mean you're being audited—but it can lead to further delays if you don't respond with all the information by the deadline. Be patient, and don't worry.

Why is my refund stuck on still processing?

Your refund is still being processed because of errors, incomplete information, suspected identity theft, complex credits (like EITC/ACTC), or a backlog, requiring extra review beyond the typical 21 days, with status updates available on the IRS Where's My Refund tool. Common causes include math errors, missing signatures, mismatched info, or claiming certain credits that trigger extra scrutiny. 

What is the maximum time for refund processing?

Usually, it takes 4-5 weeks for the refund to be credited to the account of the taxpayer. However, if refund is not received during this duration, the taxpayer must check for intimation regarding discrepancies in ITR; check email for any notification from the IT department regarding the refund.

Is it normal to wait 6 months for a tax refund?

The IRS generally issues refunds within 21 days of e-filing, but paper-filed returns can take 6 to 8 weeks.

Why is my tax refund taking so long to be approved in 2025?

The main 2025 tax refund delay reasons include errors or incomplete information on returns, claims for the Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit, identity verification processes, amended returns, and offsets for outstanding debts. Paper returns and bank processing times can also contribute to delays.

How will I know if my refund is flagged?

Taxpayers whose tax returns have been flagged for possible identity theft should receive one of the following letters: Letter 5071C, Potential Identity Theft during Original Processing with Online Option – Provides online and phone options and is issued most widely.

What if it has been 21 days and still no refund?

Contact the IRS if: It's been 21 days or more since you e-filed.

Why are refunds getting delayed?

Your refund is taking so long likely due to errors or incomplete info on your return, suspected identity theft/fraud, claiming certain tax credits (like EITC/ACTC), filing a paper return, or outstanding debts/audits, with electronic filing and direct deposit usually being the fastest, while mail or complex returns take longer for the IRS to process.

How long can the IRS legally take to process your refund?

Processing your refund usually takes: Up to 21 days for an e-filed return. 6 weeks or more for returns sent by mail. Longer if your return needs corrections or extra review.

Why is my return still under processing?

Your refund is still being processed because of errors, incomplete information, suspected identity theft, complex credits (like EITC/ACTC), or a backlog, requiring extra review beyond the typical 21 days, with status updates available on the IRS Where's My Refund tool. Common causes include math errors, missing signatures, mismatched info, or claiming certain credits that trigger extra scrutiny. 

Should I be worried if my refund is delayed?

While Tax Topic 152 can indicate possible delays, it does not mean there is a problem with your tax return. Several factors can influence the processing time, including the need for additional review, discrepancies in the information provided, or high volumes of returns being processed.

Can I call the IRS to see why my refund is delayed?

You may call us toll-free at 800-829-1040, M - F, 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Can I speed up my IRS refund review?

What should I do? Request an expedited refund by calling the IRS at 800-829-1040 (TTY/TDD 800-829-4059). Request a manual refund expedited to you.

What's the best time to check IRS refund status?

24 hours after you e-file a current-year return.

Do you count weekends when waiting for a tax refund?

The Internal Revenue Service says it processes about nine out of 10 tax returns within 21 business days. That estimate does not include weekends and holidays. Several factors can affect how fast your get your money.

Why did I get $1400 from the IRS today?

You likely received $1400 from the IRS today as a supplemental payment for the 2021 Economic Impact Payment (EIP3), specifically the Recovery Rebate Credit, for people who missed it by not claiming it or leaving it blank on their 2021 tax return. These are "plus-up" payments for those eligible for the third stimulus but didn't get the full amount, often for dependents or due to income changes, with a deadline to claim it by April 2025 by filing a 2021 return if you hadn't already.