An income tax return stays "under processing" beyond the standard 21-day window typically due to errors (math, missing info), identity verification needs, claiming specific credits (EITC, ACTC), paper filing, or high system volume. It usually indicates the IRS needs more time for review or verification, not necessarily a serious issue.
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.
The IRS generally issues refunds within 21 days of e-filing, but paper-filed returns can take 6 to 8 weeks.
However, in most cases, ITR is processed after 7-30 days of e-verification. If processing takes more time, there may be a reason for checking arithmetic accuracy, incorrect claims, or comparing with other relevant financial data.
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.
Heightened scrutiny, data mismatches and stricter checks are slowing ITR processing. Here's why refunds are stuck and what taxpayers can do now.
The information in this article is up to date for tax year 2025 (returns filed in 2026). Most refunds will be issued within 21 days after the return has been accepted, according to the IRS.
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.
How long does it take for the IRS to approve my refund? Here's what you can expect in terms of timing. IRS approval: The IRS works to review and approve refunds quickly and efficiently. In fact, historically, more than 9 out of 10 refunds are processed and approved within 21 days of e-file acceptance.
After receiving the intimation if you have any refund, refund will directly deposit to your bank account or you will receive a Cheque. The tax refund status can be checked at NSDL Portal or EZTax.in Self Service Portal. or by logging in to ITD Site. Do you know?
If you've seen Tax Topic 152 on your IRS account, your refund will likely take longer than 21 days to arrive. It doesn't mean you've done anything wrong, or that you won't get your refund. It's just an indication that your return is still being processed and has yet to be accepted or rejected.
What causes an IRS refund delay?
Quick Answer. Your refund may be bigger based on new deductions from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and inflation adjustments to the standard deduction and tax brackets. However, individual results will vary. Changes to your income, withholding and life circumstances can all affect your tax refund.
You may call us toll-free at 800-829-1040, M - F, 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Being processed is better than still being processed. Does not necessarily mean there's red flags on the account or that you need to verify, it's just a general message stating that IRS is still working on things.
Errors in your tax return calculations can cause delays as the IRS may need to correct them. A mismatch between your Social Security Number and the records can significantly delay your refund. Filing your tax return too early or too late can lead to delays due to IRS system updates or high processing volumes.
Key takeaways. Most people receive refunds within three weeks if they e-file and choose direct deposit; paper returns can take six weeks or more. Filing accurately — especially when claiming credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit— helps prevent refund delays.
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.
You must offer a refund to customers if they've told you within 14 days of receiving their item that they want to cancel. They have another 14 days to return the item once they've told you. You must refund the customer within 14 days of receiving the item back.
Once you submit your Income Tax Return online, the refund is generally issued within 4–5 weeks. However, the actual time can vary greatly. Some taxpayers receive their refund within just a few days, while others may need to wait 2–4 weeks or more.
Unallowable Deductions: Refunds may be delayed or reduced if the taxpayer claims deductions that are clearly unallowable. First-Time Filers: A taxpayer who has not filed a tax return as either a primary or secondary filer in the previous ten years is considered a first-time filer, and this can lead to delays.
Acceptance simply confirms that the return passed the IRS's initial checks, but it does not mean the return has been fully reviewed or that a refund has been approved. Understanding how the IRS moves from acceptance to approval can make the waiting period feel a bit clearer and more predictable.
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.