My federal return was accepted on 7 March 2020. It has not changed status. In past years it seems like I already had refund by now. should i worry or sign of times?

[JeanneLO]

No need to worry. According to the IRS website What to expect for Refunds This Year more than 9 out of 10 refunds are issued in less than 21 days after the IRS accepts the tax return when you e-file and choose direct deposit as your refund choice. Your return may take this full time period or a little longer this year.

Where’s My Refund? has the most up to date information available about your refund. The tool is updated daily (usually overnight) so you will just usually need to check once a day.

For more on the timing of your refund please see this TurboTax FAQ.

If you are anticipating a state tax return refund those processing times vary from state to state. To check on a state refund please visit your state Department of Revenue website.

[johngilchristm]

JeanneLO 

Thank you again.

In reference to my message above two more questions....

- What would prevent the IRS from processing the return and potential initiating an audit?

- Why do you indicate this year it will take the full time if not a little longer?

Any details you can provide would be much appreciated.

Thank you.

John 

[JeanneLO]

@johngilchristm 

What would prevent the IRS from processing the return and potential initiating an audit?

Only the IRS knows why a audit would be triggered, having a processing time that goes beyond 21 days does not automatically mean you will be audited.

Why do you indicate this year it will take the full time if not a little longer?

This response is based on some returns are taking the full 21 days or longer, this comment was not based on your tax return specifically.

[johngilchristm]

Thank you.

Can you comment on the reasons why a return would be audited immediately upon review there fore preventing a refund from being paid?

Just from what you have experienced?

I am really getting concerned and just trying to plan for whether I am actually not going to get my refund as it is needed very very badly.

Can you look at my return and determine how much of a chance there is it will get audited?

Like I said this time frame is the longest I have seen in several years.

I am sorry to harass you and I appreciate any help you can provide

Thank you.  

[TerukoL]

This is a public, internet forum, so we are not able to see your return.

If you were to get audited by the state or IRS, Audit Defense is an optional add-on service that would give you full audit representation from a licensed tax professional.

Please click What is Audit Defense? to learn more.  

If it has been more than 21 days since your return was accepted,  You will need to contact the IRS  at 1-800-829-1040 and follow the prompts for a live representative. The person that you speak with will have direct access to your tax return and be able to provide you with a status update. 

When you call, make sure you have the following information:

• tax year
• social security number
• filing status
• exact refund amount

When calling the IRS do NOT choose Option 1. 

Choose Option 2 after you choose the language. 

• Then Press 1  
• Then Press 4 
• Then Press 2, it will then transfer you to an agent. 

Please click When will I get my IRS tax refund? to learn more.