Message from IRS about EIC tax credit delaying taxes

[vmoore431]

Has anyone checked WMR and gotten a message that they cannot release refunds until Mid February or possibly the end of February if you claimed the EIC Tax Credit.  When did all this start.  I filed on the 25th, accepted on the 28th and now after checking my status on WMR for sometime now I'm getting this message. 

[beckytomlin02]

yes Im getting the same 😕

[NCperson]

it's the law

see link below 

https://www.irs.gov/individuals/refund-timing

Why is my refund being held?

If you claim the EITC or ACTC on your tax return, the IRS cannot issue your refund before mid-February. The law requires the IRS to hold the entire refund — even the portion not associated with the EITC or ACTC. Like previous years, some tax refunds may be held if there are questions about the tax return or the IRS needs more information.

When will I get my refund?

The IRS expects the earliest EITC/ACTC related refunds to be available in taxpayer bank accounts or debit cards starting February 27, 2019, if these taxpayers chose direct deposit and there are no other issues with their tax return.

[BIANCA423]

They can release them now starting tommorrow. Tommorrow is mid February.