Why does my refund still say processing?

Asked by: Miss Ludie Lindgren  |  Last update: November 7, 2025
Score: 4.2/5 (61 votes)

If your refund status used to be your tax return is still being processed, but now the status says it is being processed, the IRS may have detected an issue in your tax return that could cause a delay in the release of your tax refund.

How long will my refund be still processing?

To process your refund, it usually takes: Up to 21 days for an e-filed return.

Why is my refund stuck in processing?

It simply means that your e-filed return is being processed and that the government hasn't approved or rejected it yet. Sometimes return status does not update for several days or even longer.

How long does it take when it says your refund is being processed?

Most online returns process within 2 weeks (10 business days), however if we need to manually process it, it may take up to 30 calendar days.

What does it mean when your refund is processing?

Refund processed means merchant has completed the process and the amount has been transferred to your payment source.

Refund Status: Your Tax Return is Still Being Processed| What to do if it's more than 21 days?

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How long does a refund take after processing?

If you file a complete and accurate paper tax return, your refund should be issued in about six to eight weeks from the date IRS receives your return. If you file your return electronically, your refund should be issued in less than three weeks, even faster when you choose direct deposit.

Why does IRS still say processing?

If a payment is mailed with the tax return, the payment is separated upon receipt and deposited to ensure the taxpayer account is credited for the payment. The IRS continues to process tax returns that need to be manually reviewed due to errors in the order they are received.

What does processing mean for a tax refund?

This means the IRS has your tax return and is processing it. Your personalized refund date will be available as soon as the IRS finishes processing your return and confirms that your refund has been approved. Most refunds are issued in less than 21 days.

How long does a refund take once processed?

Refunds to debit cards tend to take between two and five business days, but it can take up to 30 days depending on the company issuing the refund.

Does refund processed mean approved?

Here's what each one means: Return Received – The IRS has received your tax return and it's being processed. Refund Approved – They've processed your tax return, and your tax refund has been approved. It will also provide an actual tax refund date.

Is still being processed bad?

If their refund status changes from “being processed” status to “still being processed” status, the issue detected in the tax forms was likely resolved and the refund may be released when it is approved for a future cycle date.

How do I know if my tax return has been flagged?

If the IRS decides that your return merits a second glance, you'll be issued a CP05 Notice. This notice lets you know that your return is being reviewed to verify any or all of the following: Your income. Your tax withholding.

What is the status of refund under processing?

Refund processing by the tax department starts only after the return is e-verified by the taxpayer. Usually, it takes 4-5 weeks for the refund to be credited to the account of the taxpayer.

Where is my refund stuck on processing?

If your refund details state that it's still processing, you can check your tax return to see if you catch any errors. If your refund status instructs you to contact the IRS, you can speak to an agent to get clarification by calling 1-800-829-1040.

Why do refunds take so long to process?

Numerous refund requests—A high volume of refund requests can entail slower processing and delays in approving refunds. Incorrect information—The processing of your refund can take longer due to incorrect information on your initial refund request.

How many days after processing will I get my refund?

Typically, the refund process takes around 20-45 days after the e-verification of the income tax return. However, if the acknowledgement has been sent physically to the CPC, it may take longer. Demand determined: This means additional tax is payable.

How long does very take to process returns?

We always attempt to process your returns as soon as they arrive back to us. Please allow up to 14 days from your when item(s) have been sent. If you bought your item using Very Pay you can check to see if your returned item has been credited by visiting Transactions & Statements in My Account.

What happens when a refund is processed?

The refund amount is deducted from your outstanding balance, and your available credit is increased by the same amount. The refund may appear as a credit on your statement or as a separate transaction. Some issuers may also send you a notification or email when a refund is processed.

How long can my refund be processing?

The IRS issues most refunds in fewer than 21 days for taxpayers who file electronically and choose direct deposit. However, some returns have errors or need more review and may take longer to process.

What does it mean if your return is processing?

Once an individual or entity completes the filing process and verifies it, the Income Tax Department (ITD) begins processing and takes further action depending on various scenarios, like issuing a refund if TDS deducted more than your tax liability or initiating scrutiny, depending on the circumstances.

What to do if it's been 21 days and still processing?

You should only contact the IRS if:
  1. It's been 21 days or more since you e-filed.
  2. Where's My Refund? tells you to contact them.

Why does my payment still say processing?

Processed does not necessarily mean paid. If the bank says a transaction has been processed, that can mean that it has been authorized and authenticated but not yet settled - meaning, the seller may not see the funds in their account yet.

Does being processed mean approved?

Your status will indicate one of the following: Received means your return is being processed. Approved indicates your return has been accepted and your refund amount is approved. Sent confirms that your refund is being direct-deposited into your bank account or mailed to you as a check.

Should I be worried if my refund is delayed?

Your refund may be delayed for several reasons. In some cases, you'll just get the money later than expected. In others, the IRS may send you a letter asking for additional information before it can finish processing your return and send your refund.