Tax Refund Delays in 2021: What You Need to Know
Are you wondering why your tax refund is still not in the mail in 2021? If so, you're not alone. Tax refund processing faced unprecedented challenges in the past year, largely due to a combination of factors including underfunding, a backlog, and new tax laws. This article will delve into the reasons behind the delays and provide guidance on how to check the status of your refund.
Reasons for Tax Refund Delays
One major reason for the delay in tax refunds is the underfunding of the IRS by the GOP. This has led to a significant backlog of returns, especially from previous years. Additionally, the pandemic has strained the system, resulting in fewer employees and outdated processes.
Recent changes in tax laws, such as those introduced in the American Rescue Plan (ARP) and the increased unemployment benefits, have also contributed to delays. These new laws required the IRS to reprogram their systems, leading to further delays in processing returns. Furthermore, a backlog of returns from 2019 and 2020 added to the overall processing time.
How to Check Your Refund Status
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is moving away from manual processing and is now largely relying on electronic filing. If you have already filed your taxes electronically, you have a better chance of receiving your refund quickly. However, if your return is still pending, it is crucial to check the status online. The IRS provides a simple tool to track the progress of your refund online at Where's My Refund?.
Additional Factors Contributing to Delay
Another factor that can lead to refund delays is the possibility that your filing might have been incorrect. If you submitted a paper return, it is even more important to check if any irregularities might have affected the processing time. Incorrect or incomplete forms can delay your refund, as the IRS may need to request further information.
Can You Do Anything to Speed Up the Process?
Unfortunately, once your return is submitted, there is little you can do to speed up the process further. Checking the portal and staying in touch with them can provide some insights, but ultimately, the IRS is working on processing them as efficiently as possible given the current resources.
Professional Tax Consulting
For those who find the hurdles in navigating the refund process overwhelming, professional tax consulting services like Is Equal Too Tax Consultants can offer assistance. They provide expert guidance to help taxpayers get the most out of their refunds. To contact them, visit their website or reach out via email: isequaltoo@. Connect with Is Equal Too Tax Consultants on Instagram, LinkedIn, and their website for more information.
It is important to stay informed and proactive in managing your tax refund process. By staying aware of the factors affecting refunds and utilizing any available resources, you can better understand and manage the delays you may encounter.