The IRS no
longer processes returns in first in first out batches. They are processed
individually so returns sent in at the same time will not necessarily process
together. The IRS states that 9 of 10 returns will process in 21 days or less.
However considering that the IRS processes more than 140 million returns that
means 14 million will be delayed for more than 21 days.
Think of the IRS process as a long pipe line.
Some returns will be rejected before being allowed into the pipe and the rest
will be accepted. Then once accepted into the pipeline many will process
directly through without any delays and some will not. Some returns
will be siphoned off for further review of some kind. The basis of what
triggers these reviews is a well guarded secret but some are just picked
randomly every year.
Some reviews are automated and some will require
human attention. The processing times will vary but, due to the understaffing
situation that the IRS announced earlier this year, they are likely
to be much longer this year.
New for 2016 …. Any returns with EIC or ACTC on them will be delayed …
see the IRS web site link https://www.irs.gov/uac/newsroom/2016-tax-changes
