It's hard to trust what the irs is telling us over the phone due to scripted answers. Why are we really having to wait longer this year even with efile?

[elanahayslip]

I had no answers from them as to why we didn't get either stimulus. We qualify and file married separately. We both lost work last year, 4 children and are struggling harshly. We work now but we need the money we are rightly entitled to. Refund alone would be a dramatic help. Does anyone have any real info as to what is taking longer with them this year? I mean even if they are working from home that's not an excuse anymore.... Hello technology

[SweetieJean]

This article may help explain. 

 The IRS is behind in processing nearly 7 million tax returns, an early warning sign the agency is un...

[SamS1 · Accepted solution]

Hard to say why its taking longer.  There are many issues that can delay refunds, including ones over which the IRS has no control. Here are the top three categories:

Administrative requirements

• Earned income tax credit or additional child tax credit -  If you filed in February or earlier and claimed either of these credits, the 2017 PATH Act requires processing to be delayed.  The IRS just recently started releasing these refunds
• Refund Offset -  The IRS may have discovered you have delinquent debts, which they're legally required to deduct from your refund. You'll receive a notice about the offset.

Missing, inconsistent, or suspect information

• The IRS found errors, inconsistencies, or missing info on the return. For example, you and a former spouse both claimed the same child as a dependent.
• The return is under review, which can happen randomly.
• The IRS suspects identity theft or fraud.

Delivery glitches

• Your refund check could just be delayed in the mail. The reason could be as simple as a new postal carrier learning your route.
• Electronic payments may be delayed by bank transfer and posting issues.

Keep checking Where's my refund and Get my payment.

[fanfare]

if you did not get the EIP1 or EIP2 , put the amount you did not get on your form 1040 line 30.

That's the only way.