If the government took my refund because i was behind on my student loans, why didn't they put that money toward my student loans?

[fisherbrettster]

 My refund was close to 4k which would've been a substantial help. Also if I'm behind on child support why didn't they hold my money for that? I have no idea where my refund went but I was sure I got a letter saying it was held for my student loans.

[SweetieJean]

Only the govt can answer that.

[Critter]

Please visit the https://www.irs.gov/Refunds. You will need your social security #, filing status, and amt of refund.  As you proceed, there will be a message shows if the refund is offset. If the refund is offset, the IRS will mail a letter within two weeks.

Generally, if you have defaulted student loans that have been assigned to a collections agency, your taxes will likely be withheld by the IRS to pay off a portion of your debt.  The law states the IRS must provide you with a proposed offset, and the opportunity for you to review your loan records.  This notice would be sent to you via mail, at the best address that the IRS is able to find for you.  If you never receive this letter, it is not grounds for challenging the tax offset, although you can challenge the offset for other reasons as you will see below.

The IRS provides a toll free number which you can call, go through the automated prompts, and see if you have any offsets pending under your social security number.  Their number is (800)304-3107.