I received a different amount for a refund than on my tax return. Do I need to file an amended return?

[kate52]

I filed my return on 7/15/20 expecting a $2700 refund. My direct deposit on 8/19/20 from the IRS was $33. They never notified me of an error. It has been over 4 weeks and I never received a letter from the IRS about the different amount. Do I need to file an amended return?

[macuser_22]

If the IRS reduced your refund they will send a letter explaining in 3-4 weeks.

[xmasbaby0]

That might have been a check for interest.  Have you been waiting a long time for your refund?  In some cases people are getting the interest check ahead of the actual federal refund.

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/internal-revenue-service/help/will-i-get-a-2019-tax-interest-refun...

[kate52]

It has been over 4 weeks and I have not received a letter from the IRS. 

[macuser_22]

What does the IRS site say?

Check your refund stratus here:
https://www.irs.gov/refunds

[xmasbaby0]

You filed only four weeks ago?  Then the check is not for interest.  Wait to see if you receive a letter from the IRS.  If they reduce you refund they will send you a letter of explanation.  

[kate52]

It says: "We cannot provide any information about your refund."

[kate52]

I filed on July 15th. The refund was deposited in my account on August 19th. It's been more than a month. I have not received any communication from the IRS.  

[xmasbaby0 · Accepted solution]

"Do I need to file an amended return?"  Preparing an amended return would not be appropriate since you have no idea what the IRS changed.  Wait until you know what happened.

To call the IRS:IRS:  800-829-1040  hours 7 AM - 7 PM local time Mon-Fri

Listen to each menu before making the selection.

First choose your language. Press 1 for English.

Then do NOT choose the first choice re: "Refund", or it will send you to an automated phone line.

Instead, press 2 for "personal income tax".

Then press 1 for "form, tax history, or payment".  

Then press 3 "for all other questions."

Then press 2 "for all other questions."  It should then transfer you to an agent.

[kate52]

Thank you very much for your assistance.