Buzz
If you’re still one of the taxpayers waiting on your 2020 refund, don’t expect any smoother sailing this year. Multiple sources have indicated that the 2022 tax season will again face significant delays. The Treasury Department cautioned early this year that the IRS will encounter "enormous challenges," primarily due to the backlog of unresolved returns from last year and other ongoing issues.
Nevertheless, there are steps you can take to reduce the frustration while dealing with an IRS short-staffed by budget cuts, a large backlog, and other obstacles that are bound to cause delays. Considering that the average tax refund for the 2020 tax year was $2,827, there’s every reason to want that refund quickly. Here are some tips to help you get your tax refund in as little as 21 days after filing.
Time is of the essence
Simply put, the IRS processing time will lengthen as more people submit their returns. To boost your chances of getting your refund before things get fully backed up, file your taxes as early as possible.
File electronically
The IRS strongly advises e-filing, stating that it is “faster, safer, and more accurate than mailing your tax return because it is transmitted directly to the IRS’ computer systems.” E-filing could get your refund in as little as 21 days, while paper returns can take six to eight weeks to process.
To e-file, there are several free tools available, including the IRS’ Free File program, as long as your adjusted gross income is under $72,000. Here are additional ways to file your taxes online for free.
Ensure Accuracy
If there are any inconsistencies between the information you submit manually and what the IRS has on record, it will be flagged for further inspection, potentially delaying your process for weeks or even months. Be sure to thoroughly verify your forms to prevent serious delays caused by errors.
The IRS offers the following advice for filing an accurate and complete 2021 tax return:
Collect all essential documents, such as W-2s, 1099s, receipts, canceled checks, and other paperwork that verify any income, deductions, or credits listed on your tax return.
Create a system to keep all crucial information organized, such as using a digital record-keeping program or a physical filing system with clearly labeled folders. Having everything easily accessible simplifies the tax filing process.
Make sure to gather all your year-end income documents. It's important to wait until you have all your 2021 tax forms before filing to prevent delays that could impact the speed of your tax refund.
Be sure to keep every IRS letter regarding stimulus checks, including those related to the Child Tax Credit payments. Ensure that the amounts you report align with IRS records to avoid having your taxes flagged and delayed for review.
Choose direct deposit
Besides filing electronically, the IRS strongly recommends that you choose direct deposit for your refund. If you prefer a paper check, be prepared for potential delays from the U.S. Postal Service.
Relax and monitor
While obsessively checking the status of your refund won’t speed up the process, it can provide some reassurance as you wait. After filing electronically, you can start tracking your return and refund status on the IRS' “Where’s My Refund?” website. If you mailed your return, you'll need to wait four weeks before checking the site.
To ensure you receive your 2021 tax refund, make sure to handle everything online this year. If the idea of skipping paper mail feels like a loss, perhaps find other ways to support the USPS. You could send a postcard to your mom or write a friend a handwritten letter—maybe sharing how eager you are to get your tax refund as soon as possible.
