Tax season is here. When will you get your refund? Key dates, deadlines and questions
It’s that time of year again: the IRS will start to accept tax returns from the 2023 tax year on Jan. 29. The deadline is April 15, 2024. Here are some other key dates and answers to frequently asked questions about filing taxes.
Do you have to wait until Jan. 29 to file taxes?
If you are using a professional tax preparer or tax preparation software and have received your tax statement information to file, you do not need to wait, according to the IRS.
IRS Free File, which allows those with an adjusted gross income under $79,000 to self-file taxes for no charge, is available from Jan. 29.
When will you get your refund?
The IRS notes that most taxpayers who filed online will receive their refund within 21 calendar days of filing. If filed by mail, it will take about four to six weeks.
How can I check or track my refund status?
You can call the automated refund hotline at 800-829-1954 to check your 2023 refund status.
Alternatively, taxpayers can check the refund status portal on the IRS website.
What can cause a delay in getting a refund?
A few factors can impact how quickly you get your refund. Be cautious of any contact you receive prior to getting your refund, as scams continue to proliferate. Here are some reasons your return could be delayed, including:
It includes an earned income tax credit or an additional child tax credit, which won’t be issued by the IRS until mid-February.
There is some kind of error on the filing.
It requires additional review.
There is an issue with identity theft or fraud related to the return.
The return was flagged by a bank due to suspicious activity.
It includes a Form 8379 for an Injured Spouse Allocation.
Receiving tax statements for filing after Jan. 29.
Other questions the IRS can help answer
For a variety of questions and issues, the IRS has a robust help page with additional information about how to get help with everything from translation services to free assistance and corrections on your filing.
You can find more information here.
Local IRS assistance
If you have any questions that can’t be answered with the above information, you can always reach out to your local IRS office for assistance.
This story was originally published January 25, 2024 at 12:12 PM.
