Why did my friend receive a refund deposit less than what was in the return?

[Bsch4477]

Only the IRS can answer that question. Generally the IRS sends a letter when it adjusts a tax liability. 

[VolvoGirl]

Could it be for the new 3rd stimulus check?  Those are going out now.  

[Horselover66]

Weird because it was exactly $600 less than expected.

[DoninGA · Accepted solution]

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@Horselover66 wrote:

Weird because it was exactly $600 less than expected.

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Go to this IRS website for federal tax refund FAQ's - https://www.irs.gov/refunds/tax-season-refund-frequently-asked-questions

Why is my refund different than the amount on the tax return I filed? (updated 2/5/2021)

All or part of your refund, including any amount for the Recovery Rebate Credit, may have been used (offset) to pay off past-due federal tax, state income tax, state unemployment compensation debts, child support, spousal support, or other federal nontax debts, such as student loans. To find out if you may have an offset or if you have questions about an offset, contact the agency to which you owe the debt.

We also may have changed your refund amount because we made changes to your tax return. This may include corrections to any incorrect Recovery Rebate Credit amount. You’ll get a notice explaining the changes. Where’s My Refund? will reflect the reasons for the refund offset when it relates to a change in your tax return.

Tax Topic 203, Refund Offsets for Unpaid Child Support, Certain Federal and State Debts, and Unemplo... has more information about refund offsets.

[VolvoGirl · Accepted solution]

Oh,  was there $600 on 1040 line 30 for the Recovery Rebate Credit?  That was for the 2nd Stimulus check.   The IRS has been adjusting returns that claimed it but the IRS already sent it.  Did they get it after they filed?  

[Horselover66]

I think this is it.