Receiving a letter from the IRS indicating a delay in your tax refund can be concerning. This guide explains the IRS’s 60-day review process, common reasons for delays, and steps you can take to expedite your refund.
60-Day Review Process
When the IRS reviews your tax return, it may take up to 60 days to process your refund. This review process is designed to ensure accuracy and prevent fraud. During this time, the IRS may request additional information or documentation to verify your return.
Reasons for 60-Day Reviews
The IRS may initiate a 60-day review for various reasons, including:
- Complex Tax Return: Returns with multiple income sources, deductions, or credits may require additional scrutiny.
- Mathematical Errors: Discrepancies between the taxpayer’s calculations and the IRS’s records can trigger a review.
- Unverified Income: The IRS may need to verify income reported on the tax return with employers or other sources.
- Suspicious Activity: Returns with red flags, such as large deductions or questionable expenses, may be subject to further review.
Expediting Your Refund
While the IRS typically completes reviews within 60 days, there are steps you can take to potentially expedite the process:
- Respond Promptly to IRS Requests: If the IRS requests additional information or documentation, provide it promptly to avoid further delays.
- Contact the IRS: If you have not received your refund after 60 days, contact the IRS by phone or mail to inquire about the status of your review.
- File a Tax Advocate Request: In certain cases, you may be able to request assistance from the Taxpayer Advocate, an independent organization within the IRS that can help resolve tax-related issues.
Receiving a letter from the IRS indicating a 60-day review of your tax return can be frustrating, but it is important to understand the process and respond promptly to any requests for information. By following the steps outlined above, you can help expedite your refund and minimize any potential delays.
2024 IRS TAX REFUND UPDATE – New Refunds Released, Tax Delays, 60 Day Reviews, Audits, Notices
FAQ
Does it really take 60 days for IRS review?
How long will my refund be under review?
Why do I have to wait 60 days for my refund?
What is 60 days for IRS?
How long does a tax refund review take?
We understand your tax refund is very important to you and we’ll work to complete our review as quickly as possible. We could take up to 60 days to complete this review. Please don’t contact us prior to 60 days from the date of this notice since we won’t be able to provide you any additional information.
How does the IRS review a tax return?
How Tax Returns Are Selected for Review The most common reason for the IRS to review a tax return is something called the Discriminant Function System (or DIF) score. The IRS uses a computerized scoring model that evaluates your return and gives it a score based on the likelihood that it will need to be changed.
What happens after IRS review?
After the IRS finishes its review, you may be required to verify tax credits claimed, income tax withholding or business expenses before your refund will be released or applied as an overpayment to next year’s estimated tax. How did I get here?
How long does it take to get a tax refund?
Once you have successfully verified the entries on your tax return, it may take up to nine weeks for you to receive your refund or apply the overpayment to next year’s estimated tax. However, if there are other issues, you may receive a notice asking for more information, and this may delay your refund.