Thousands of taxpayers are hoping to receive their refunds sooner than usual this tax season. The IRS recommends using the “Where’s my refund?” tool on IRS.gov to check the status of your return. This digital resource provides updates in less than 24 hours for those who file electronically, versus four weeks for those who file in physical format.
To access the platform, users must provide their Social Security number or ITIN, marital status, and refund amount. The system is updated daily and works with mobile devices via the IRS2Go app, which also allows for payments and free advice. Direct deposit allows for 90% of refunds to be processed within 21 days, according to the IRS.
IRS Warns: Delays Beyond 21 Days? “Contact Us Immediately”
Those who do not already have a bank account can use the National Credit Union Locator Tool to open one. Taxpayers should contact the IRS via phone or assistance centers if their electronic or physical returns are delayed for more than 21 days or six weeks.
The IRS grants automatic extensions to taxpayers in areas declared by FEMA to be in an emergency during 2024.Residents in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and select counties in Alaska, New Mexico, Tennessee, and Virginia have until May 1, 2025 to file. Cases such as Los Angeles County (California) and Kentucky have extended deadlines until October or November 2025.
IRS Extends Deadlines for Gaza, West Bank, and Israel-located American Taxpayers
“This benefit applies without the need for an application for those who reside in designated areas,” according to a statement from the IRS. Americans in Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank can extend their tax obligations until September 30, 2025, effective from October 2023. The disaster tax relief portal provides a complete list of eligible areas.
Taxpayers outside affected areas can request electronic extensions until April 15, but must pay owed taxes before then. Those who have already received an automatic extension (until May 1) can request an additional extension until October 2025 by submitting Form 4868 via mail. To avoid fines, debt payments must be made by the original deadline.
The IRS emphasizes that extensions only delay the filing of returns, not payment. Failure to comply with the latter results in accumulative interest and penalties. “Communication by postal mail is the official method to request additional information,” according to the organization.
As tax season comes to a close, the IRS reminds taxpayers to review important filing guidelines, such as refundable credits and documentation requirements. Common errors, such as numerical omissions or incorrect bank information, cause delays in processes. According to preliminary estimates, the average refund amount for this year is $3,221.
For returns with annual income under $79,000, it’s recommended to use free tools like IRS Free File rather than unauthorized preparation services. Identity verification through ID.me, as well as electronic alert subscription, round out the security and efficiency measures.
