Mailing in tax return forms makes it harder to track.
If you’re anxious to get your refund, waiting for it can be stressful. This is especially true if there are any delays, errors or mistakes with the paperwork.
But, there are a few simple steps you can take to check your refund status to ensure the return is coming your way.
Use an Advisor
The first step that you can take to ensure a smooth filing process is to use the help of a financial advisor, like us here at A.P Tax and Accounting. Using the help of an advisor ensures that all of the correct paperwork and documentation has been filled out, sent and tracked correctly.
Plus, an advisor will be able to maintain detailed records of your documents including the date it was sent and the information stated on the return. An advisor will also work to keep you updated on its status by letting you know if there are any unexpected delays with the process. In turn, helping to alleviate the stress and wait-times of filing.
Confirm Your Information
If you are checking the status of the return on your own, you will need specific details to provide to the IRS. This is needed to confirm that you are who you claim to be.
Before contacting the IRS for information, you should know what the primary Social Security Number on the return was, the filing status used on the return, and the whole dollar amount on the refund. Once gathered, you will then be able to contact the IRS to find out your expected return date.
Understand the Wait Times
Before getting impatient with the process, you should also take a moment to review the standard wait-times. It’s important to know that the IRS issues most refunds in less than 21 days, however, some applications can require additional time to process. This is especially true if any information was filled out incorrectly or there was an error on the forms.
Track Online with E-Filing
Another great tool that can be used to help track and check your refund is an online e-filing system. You can usually speed up the process of getting your return by filing electronically and avoiding paper copies of your documents.
On average, electronic returns are processed in about three weeks and will be much easier to track compared to standard paper copies. If you are using an online tax software through a tax pro, you can actually track your IRS refund status in as little as 24 hours after the IRS receives your return. This can eliminate the added stress and worry about getting your money on time.
Another tactic that can be used to help fast-track your return is to set up a direct deposit with your bank which eliminates the added wait time of getting a paper check in the mail. In turn, allowing you to easily monitor and track your return.
Contact the IRS
If you are still waiting on your return (after 21 days have passed since filing online or six weeks after mailing in your return), you should begin the process of contacting the IRS to figure out what happened to it. Be sure to keep track of the date that you sent it in so you don’t wait too long to receive it.
To contact the IRS you can visit a local office or call the federal agency at 800-829-1040 to determine the status of your return.
Waiting on your return can be stressful. However, this process can be easier with the help of a professional financial advisor and simple tactics to track your documents. If you’d like more information on how we can help you this tax season contact us today.
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