Return Status Unavailable

[charleszeng]

I mailed my return in on July 5th, and I recently checked on the status of it today (7/15) but it says that it was unavailable. I looked it up and understand that when mailing a return, it'll take about 4-6 weeks for the results to show up in the IRS Refund Status tool. However, since today is the last day to file taxes and I was wondering what I'm suppose to do to check my tax return status and make sure it got sent out properly to the IRS offices. 

Also should I file for an extension just in case? Would I still be able to file for an extension?

[bluedeb · Accepted solution]

Do not file an extension since you already filed your return.  The IRS was not processing mailed in returns during their shutdown for Covid-19.  The have just recently started processing the backlog of mailed in returns.  The normal 4 to 6 weeks is not the normal right now.  It will take longer for your information to show on the IRS website.  All you can do is keep checking the IRS website, Where's My Refund.  Hopefully, your information will appear soon.

[charleszeng]

Ok, so I should just trust that my information was delivered correctly? Since I did everything correctly and sent my return in before July 15th, is there any consequence if, for some reason, they do not receive my return? What happens if there is a mix up at the Post Office or something that I cannot control?

[bluedeb · Accepted solution]

Yes, just wait.  Your return will be posted as on time by the post office.  Actually, if you are due a refund there is no penalty for filing a late return.  If you owed taxes it would be considered as on time since you filed before 7/15/20.

If you want to fill more secure, you can contact the IRS.

The IRS telephone number is 1-800-829-1040, and they are available from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday thru Friday. The best time to call is early in the morning.

- The first question the automated system will ask you is to choose your language.
- Once you’ve set your language, do NOT choose Option 1 (regarding refund info). Choose option 2 for “Personal Income Tax” instead.
- Next, press 1 for “form, tax history, or payment”.
- Next, press 3 “for all other questions.”
-Next, press 2 “for all other questions.”
- When the system asks you to enter your SSN or EIN to access your account information, do NOT enter anything.
-After it asks twice, you will be prompted with another menu.
-Finally, press 2 for personal or individual tax questions. The system should then transfer you to an agent.