My Federal Tax Return Hasn’t Come Yet: What Should I Do?

If you've filed your federal tax return over a month ago and it still hasn't come through, don't panic. The IRS often processes returns slowly, especially during peak seasons. Here are steps you can take to ensure your return is processed and your refund is issued.

1. Verify Your Return Status

First, verify that you've completed the e-verification process for your income tax return. If you haven't, you can do so online or offline. Visit the IRS website or any authorized e-filing portal to check your return status. You'll need your PAN (Permanent Account Number), assessment year, and captcha code.

2. Check Refund Status

If your return is verified and you're still not seeing any changes, check the refund status on the e-filing portal or on the NSDL website. Ensure that you have all the necessary details correct. Once your return is processed, it will typically show as 'Processed with Refund Due.' Refunds are usually credited within 20 to 45 days after processing.

3. Common Reasons for Delays

A few common reasons for delays in refund processing are:

Incorrect Bank Details: Double-check your bank account number, and make sure it is pre-verified on the e-filing portal. TDS Mismatch: Ensure that the Total Deductible Amount (TDS) figures match with your tax return. Return Under Scrutiny: The IT department may select your return for review.

4. Additional Steps for Assistance

Here are additional steps you can take to resolve the issue:

IRS Helpline: Contact the IRS helpline at 1-800-829-1040. Be prepared to provide your case details including the date and time of the call. If you cannot reach a person, write a letter and send it certified with return receipt requested. Provide the letter to the IRS address for your state. Grievance Submission: Submit a grievance on the e-filing portal to inquire about the status of your refund. This can also expedite the process. Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS): Submit Form 911 to the TAS after 60 days of unresolved issues. The TAS usually accepts cases only after multiple attempts to resolve the issue through informal channels.

Remember, refunds typically take 4 to 5 weeks to process after the return is processed. Stay patient and keep monitoring your status. If the refund still doesn't appear within the expected timeframe, take the above steps to ensure that your return is processed promptly.