The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has been in the debate in recent weeks, especially as it is vested in the Donald Trump administration, with recurring criticism for delays in refunds, but recent investigations explain the technical reasons behind these delays.
Tens of millions of American taxpayers filed their tax returns electronically, many more than in previous years, and fewer and fewer people are seeking to file their taxes on paper, because of the delays this can mean and the risks of doing it wrong, or simply because the papers can get lost in the mail. We have looked for the basic reasons why tax refunds are delayed, according to official information from the IRS.
Main causes of delay in IRS refunds according to official analysis
According to official documents, the additional review of returns is the central factor, especially when inconsistencies, complex tax credits or fraud risks are detected. This process seeks to guarantee the accuracy of payments, although it prolongs the deadlines.
Among the most frequent causes are mathematical errors, omission of key data and claims for credits such as the EITC (Earned Income Tax Credit) or ACTC (Additional Child Tax Credit). Paper returns, outstanding government debts, and suspected identity theft also trigger verification protocols. These cases exceed the standard period of 21 days for electronic procedures with direct deposit.
The IRS recommends using its platform “Where’s My Refund?” for real-time tracking. The update takes 24 hours for electronic systems and four weeks for physical returns. “Transparency is a priority, but some cases require manual validation,” explains a spokesperson in the December 4, 2024 statement.
Other common causes that cause the delay of IRS tax refunds
Manual processing of physical forms adds up to six weeks to the typical timeline, according to experts we reached out to. This method, although current, increases human errors and logistical delays. Additionally, debts owed to federal agencies allow the IRS to withhold refunds to offset debts, a legal process known as debt offset.
Also, on other occasions, IRS officers and inspectors detect potential irregularities, and the agency launches investigations that can paralyze refunds for weeks. The Taxpayer Ombudsman Service warns that these cases require identity verification and cross-checking of data with entities such as Social Security. “No system is infallible, but we prioritize fiscal security,” says a report from the entity.
If your tax refund is delayed, and you do not know why, then you should be about to receive an official communication from the IRS in which you may be asked for additional information, supporting documents, and other evidence in case doubts or inconsistencies are found.
The agency prefers to send physical notifications via postal mail, but you may also find possible notifications at “Where’s My Refund.” Experts suggest filing electronically with direct deposit, reviewing calculations with certified software, and updating personal information. Those claiming EITC or ACTC credits should anticipate delays and plan their finances without relying on rigid deadlines.