21 days - cannot call IRS.

[malipage]

It's been 3 weeks since I've filed, and I'm unable to call the IRS because they have no live agents according to their automated system. 

Do you think my refund is delayed because of corona? I was relying on that to pay my rent for May and I'm uneasy I will be short at this point. I opted for direct deposit, and got my state refund almost two days after I filed. Federal was accepted 3 weeks ago on April 5th, but no movement into my account and the IRS website says there is no expected refund date. 

[bluedeb · Accepted solution]

Due to Covid-19 the IRS is shorted staffed & all their local offices are closed.  Since the IRS is behind it can take longer for refunds to be issued.  Keep checking the IRS website Where's My Refund.  The IRS website only updates once a day.

[malipage]

Okay. So it IS because of Covid and not necessarily anything I've done wrong. What do you think the maximum timeframe is? Should I start scrambling to find other ways to pay my rent?

[bluedeb · Accepted solution]

Unfortunately,  no one knows how long it will be before the IRS catches up.   No one can even call the IRS.  Keep checking the IRS website, the IRS does say it can take 21 business days to receive a direct deposit. 

I know it is really hard but you might want to find another way to pay your rent.   Wishing you the best!

[malipage]

Alright, thank you so much. 

I'm very lucky I work at a job I can pick up extra hours whenever I want, and so can my boyfriend. Thank you very much for your time!

[bluedeb]

Glad I could help.  Be safe!!