Millions of Americans who rely on their yearly tax refund may face longer-than-usual wait times this year. The IRS is implementing new, stricter review procedures, and that means many returns — even legitimate ones — could be delayed for weeks or months. But with the right approach, taxpayers can still receive their refunds in as little as three weeks.
Why Refunds Are Slowing Down
The IRS is stepping up fraud prevention efforts, particularly for returns that claim key credits such as:
- Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
- Child Tax Credit (CTC)
- American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC)
These credits are commonly targeted by identity thieves. To combat fraud, the IRS is expanding identity checks and comparing returns more closely with employer, bank, and Social Security records. Even small discrepancies — like a number off by one digit — can trigger a manual review.
This year’s stricter system means:
- More returns flagged for verification
- More manual inspections
- Longer waits for refunds, especially for early filers
Paper Returns Face the Longest Delays
Taxpayers who still file by mail may face the slowest processing times. Paper returns require data entry by hand, and the IRS continues to struggle with staffing shortages and backlogs that began during the pandemic.
How Delays Affect Vulnerable Taxpayers
For many households, a tax refund covers essential expenses — property taxes, medical bills, insurance premiums, and utilities. A delay, even of a few weeks, can be financially devastating for retirees and lower-income families.
How to Get Your Refund in 3 Weeks
The good news? Taxpayers can reduce their chances of delays and speed up processing with a few key steps.
1. File Electronically — and File Early
E-filing is the fastest way for your return to enter the IRS system. Filing early also helps you avoid the mid-April surge, when delays peak.
2. Use Direct Deposit
Choose direct deposit instead of a paper check. It cuts delivery time by up to 10 days and avoids postal delays.
3. Double-Check Every Detail
Before submitting your return:
- Verify every Social Security number
- Match names exactly to Social Security cards
- Confirm that all income forms (W-2s, 1099s, SSA statements) are correct
- Ensure amounts match what employers and institutions report
Even one mismatched figure can trigger a months-long review.
4. Prepare Documents Early
If you claim credits that require documentation — childcare, tuition, dependent records — gather everything now. Missing documents slow down verification.
5. Consider a Professional for Complex Returns
If you sold property, took retirement distributions, or have multiple income sources, a tax professional can help prevent common mistakes that lead to delays.
Why Third-Party Data Matters More Than Ever
The IRS now compares your reported income with data sent in by:
- Employers
- Banks
- Brokerage firms
- Pension providers
If an employer files a corrected W-2 or a bank reports interest late, your return could be flagged. For retirees and investors with multiple income streams, this mismatch risk is especially high.
Bottom Line
A slower tax season doesn’t have to slow down your refund. With early preparation, accurate filing, and electronic processing, you can still receive your refund in as little as three weeks — even under the IRS’s tougher review system.
