What is the current processing time for tax returns?

The IRS issues more than 9 out of 10 refunds in less than 21 days. However, it’s possible your tax return may require additional review and take longer. Where’s My Refund? has the most up to date information available about your refund.

Is the IRS currently processing?

The IRS is open again and currently processing mail, tax returns, payments, refunds and correspondence, but limited resources continue to cause delays. You filed for the earned income tax credit or additional child tax credit. Your return needs further review.

Is the IRS processing paper tax returns this year?

However, paper tax returns are a problem this tax season with most of the IRS staff out of the office. The IRS wants all taxpayers to file electronically through their tax preparer, tax software provider or IRS Free File if possible. This year, more than 90 percent of taxpayers have filed electronically.

Why is my tax return still being processed?

Also, processing a return could be delayed by about 14 weeks if it includes Form 8379 (injured spouse allocation). The IRS will contact you by mail if more details are required to process your returns. This year, the IRS expects that taxpayers will have to wait longer than normal for refunds.

How many unprocessed tax returns does the IRS have?

The IRS has made significant progress opening backlogged mail. While, as of November 24, 2020, we had 7.1 million unprocessed individual tax returns and 2.3 million unprocessed business returns, the IRS expects to issue all refunds for 2019 individual tax returns in 2020 where there are no issues with the return.

Can a tax return be audited after it is processed?

Just because your tax return and refund are processed, doesn’t mean you can’t be audited, unfortunately. Long after Tax Day, you can receive a notice in the mail that the IRS needs more information.