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New Member
posted Jun 6, 2019 11:05:18 AM

How long does it generally take for the IRS to review audit documentation and release a refund?

I was selected for audit for my 2016 tax return prior to my refund being approved/released. I had the option to mail or fax my documentation. I faxed 86 pages including all my records for my income (I babysit), a letter from my church verifying my children resided with me alone, and a letter from my children's father verifying I am the primary custodian and supporter of them. Generally speaking, how long after documentation is submitted should I hear something? This is the 1st year I have been audited and nothing has changed except my filing status. I filed single instead of head of household this year because I did not keep all the records needed to file HOH (in case of review). 

0 6 5693
6 Replies
New Member
Jun 6, 2019 11:05:20 AM

This exact same situation I am in right now. Do you know how long it took?

Level 9
Jun 6, 2019 11:05:21 AM

Only the IRS can provide you a time-frame on when that will happen. Audit wrap-up time can vary depending on the type of audit it is and the complexity of the issue at hand since they have to check your financial information and make sure you reported the correct amount of tax. 

Once the IRS completes the audit process, then they issue your refund. You can see more details on audits here IRS Audits

And in the meantime, keep an eye out at Where’s My Refund? for updates to your status there as well. 

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New Member
Jun 6, 2019 11:05:23 AM

This exact same situation I am in right now. Do you know how long it took?

New Member
Sep 25, 2019 6:48:00 PM

Spoiler
I’m currently going through the audit process. I filed Jan 25 2019 and now it’s almost October and I’ve yet to receive my refund. I got my audit report and agreed to it and it’s been 3 weeks now and still no answers. 

New Member
Oct 11, 2019 7:06:52 PM

Same here, mines was accepted 1/28/19, was told I was being audited in aug after having my funds held for months, they finally just closed my audit this past wed (10/9) and they told me it should take two weeks for my direct deposit.... shameful how slow they are

New Member
Mar 9, 2020 4:23:56 PM

It happen to me for my 18 return.. I still haven't gotten anything back from the irs.. was supposed to by Feb 28. This year