Understanding how long it takes for the IRS to accept your tax return after you've filed with TurboTax is a common question, and one that often leads to a bit of nail-biting, especially if you're eagerly awaiting a refund! Let's break down the process step-by-step, providing you with all the information you need to stay informed and manage your expectations.
Ready to dive in? Let's get your tax return acceptance timeline clarified!
Step 1: Understanding the E-file Process – From TurboTax to the IRS
When you hit that "e-file" button in TurboTax, your return doesn't instantly get processed by the IRS. There are a few crucial steps it goes through first.
Sub-heading: The Journey of Your E-Filed Return
Your tax return embarks on a digital journey. TurboTax acts as a secure intermediary, compiling your information and transmitting it electronically to the IRS. This isn't a direct, real-time connection in terms of immediate processing. Think of it like sending an important registered letter – it's sent, then acknowledged as received, and then processed.
- Transmission from TurboTax: Once you've successfully transmitted your return from TurboTax, TurboTax first performs its own internal checks to ensure the file is formatted correctly for the IRS.
- Initial Acknowledgement from TurboTax: You'll typically receive an email from TurboTax (or an update within your TurboTax account) confirming that your return has been successfully transmitted to the IRS. This is not IRS acceptance, but rather confirmation that TurboTax has done its part.
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| How Long Does It Take Irs To Accept Return Turbotax |
Step 2: The IRS's Initial Receipt and Acceptance
This is where the IRS comes into play. After TurboTax sends your return, the IRS systems will receive it and conduct an initial check.
Sub-heading: What "Accepted" Really Means
Many people confuse "accepted" with "approved." It's important to understand the distinction.
Tip: Don’t overthink — just keep reading.
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IRS "Received" Status: This is the first status you'll likely see from the IRS. It means they've received your e-filed return. This usually happens within 24-48 hours after TurboTax transmits it.
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IRS "Accepted" Status: This is the crucial step you're waiting for. When the IRS "accepts" your return, it means they have performed a basic validation check. This check primarily verifies:
- Your Social Security Number (SSN) matches their records.
- Your name matches your SSN.
- Your filing status is correct.
- You haven't already filed another return for the same tax year.
If your return passes these initial checks, the IRS sends an "accepted" acknowledgment back to TurboTax, which then updates your status and usually sends you an email. For most e-filed returns, this "accepted" status also typically occurs within 24-48 hours of the IRS receiving it. So, in total, you can often expect your return to be accepted by the IRS within 24-48 hours of your successful e-file transmission from TurboTax.
However, keep in mind that "accepted" does NOT mean your refund is approved or that your return has been fully processed. It simply means the IRS has successfully taken it into their system for further processing.
Step 3: Beyond Acceptance – The Processing Phase
Once your return is "accepted," it moves into the processing queue at the IRS. This is where the real work begins, and it's also where the timeline can vary more significantly.
Sub-heading: What Happens During Processing?
The IRS now scrutinizes your return for accuracy and potential errors. This is a more in-depth review than the initial acceptance check.
- Error Checks: The IRS computers will compare the information on your return with information they've received from third parties (like W-2s from employers, 1099s from banks/brokers, etc.). If there are discrepancies or missing information, your return could be flagged for manual review, which will significantly delay processing.
- Credit and Deduction Verification: Certain credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), often require additional verification by the IRS due to their susceptibility to fraud. Returns claiming these credits are often subject to delays, with refunds typically not being issued before early to mid-March if filed early in the tax season. This is due to the PATH Act (Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015).
- Identity Theft Screening: The IRS has robust systems in place to detect potential identity theft. If your return triggers any red flags related to identity theft, it will be delayed while they investigate. This can involve sending you a letter asking for verification.
Sub-heading: Typical Processing Times
For most electronically filed returns, the IRS states that refunds are issued within 21 calendar days of the return being accepted. This is a general guideline, and it's important to understand that:
- It's a guideline, not a guarantee: While many taxpayers receive their refunds within this timeframe, some returns take longer.
- Factors affecting delay: As mentioned, errors, certain credits, identity theft concerns, or even high volume during peak tax season can extend this processing time.
- Paper returns take much longer: If you end up having to mail a paper return (which is rare if you're using TurboTax for e-filing), expect processing to take 6 to 8 weeks or more.
Step 4: Tracking Your Return's Status
Once you've e-filed, the best way to track your return's progress is directly with the IRS. TurboTax will only tell you if the IRS accepted your return; it won't provide real-time updates on processing or refund approval.
Sub-heading: Using the IRS "Where's My Refund?" Tool
The Where's My Refund? tool on the IRS website is your go-to resource.
Tip: Review key points when done.
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Visit IRS.gov: Go to www.irs.gov and look for the "Where's My Refund?" link.
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Information Needed: You'll need to provide three pieces of information:
- Your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- Your filing status (Single, Married Filing Jointly,
Head of Household, etc.). - The exact whole dollar amount of your refund.
Make sure this matches the refund amount on your filed return.
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Status Updates: The tool will show you one of three statuses:
- Return Received: The IRS has your return and is processing it.
- Refund Approved: The IRS has processed your return and approved your refund. It will provide a personalized refund date.
- Refund Sent: Your refund has been sent to your bank (for direct deposit) or mailed as a check.
The "Where's My Refund?" tool is updated once every 24 hours, usually overnight. There's no need to check it multiple times a day.
Sub-heading: Using the IRS2Go Mobile App
You can also download the IRS2Go mobile app on your smartphone or tablet. It offers the same "Where's My Refund?" functionality, making it convenient to check your status on the go.
Step 5: What If There's a Delay?
It can be frustrating when your refund takes longer than expected. If your refund is delayed beyond the typical 21 days for an e-filed return, or if the "Where's My Refund?" tool indicates an issue, here's what to do:
Sub-heading: Common Reasons for Delays
- Errors on your return: Typos, incorrect calculations, or missing information can all lead to delays.
- Claiming EITC or ACTC: As mentioned, these credits often require extra scrutiny.
- Identity theft concerns: If the IRS suspects identity theft, they will investigate, leading to delays.
- Review for accuracy: The IRS may select your return for a more in-depth review.
- Owing back taxes or other debts: If you owe federal or state taxes, child support, or other federal debts, your refund may be offset (reduced) to cover these amounts. You will receive a notice explaining any offset.
- Filing an amended return (Form 1040-X): Amended returns take much longer to process, typically up to 16 weeks, and can take even longer in some cases.
Sub-heading: When to Contact the IRS
Do not call the IRS before the 21-day mark unless the "Where's My Refund?" tool specifically instructs you to do so. IRS representatives have the same information as the online tool and cannot speed up your refund.
You should contact the IRS if:
- It has been more than 21 days since your e-filed return was accepted.
- It has been six weeks or more since you mailed a paper return.
- The "Where's My Refund?" tool tells you to contact the IRS.
You can call the IRS Taxpayer Assistance line at 1-800-829-1040. Be prepared for potentially long wait times.
QuickTip: Copy useful snippets to a notes app.
Key Takeaway: Patience is a Virtue
While TurboTax makes filing easy, the processing time is entirely in the hands of the IRS. By understanding the different stages and utilizing the IRS's official tools, you can stay informed and manage your expectations effectively.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 frequently asked questions, all starting with "How to," with quick answers to help you navigate your tax return journey:
How to check if my TurboTax return was successfully e-filed?
You will receive an email from TurboTax confirming your e-file transmission status. You can also log into your TurboTax account and check your e-file status there.
How to know if the IRS has accepted my return?
The IRS will send an "accepted" acknowledgment back to TurboTax, which will then update your status in your TurboTax account and send you an email notification. This typically happens within 24-48 hours of e-filing.
How to track my federal tax refund after IRS acceptance?
Use the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool on IRS.gov or the IRS2Go mobile app. You'll need your SSN, filing status, and exact refund amount.
QuickTip: Every section builds on the last.
How to get my tax refund faster?
E-file your return and choose direct deposit for your refund. This is generally the fastest way to receive your refund, often within 21 days of IRS acceptance.
How to find my exact refund amount for the "Where's My Refund?" tool?
Refer to the amount on your filed tax return (Form 1040, line 35a for federal refunds). It needs to be the exact whole dollar amount.
How to proceed if my TurboTax return was rejected by the IRS?
Log back into your TurboTax account. It will usually provide the reason for the rejection and guide you through the steps to correct the error and re-file your return. You typically have a short "perfection period" (usually 5 days for individual returns) to resubmit and still be considered timely.
How to know if my refund is delayed because of EITC or ACTC?
The IRS holds refunds for returns claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) until at least mid-February (due to the PATH Act) to help prevent fraud. If you claimed these, your refund won't be processed before then, even if accepted earlier.
How to contact the IRS about a delayed refund?
Only contact the IRS if it's been more than 21 days since your e-filed return was accepted, or if the "Where's My Refund?" tool specifically tells you to. Call the IRS Taxpayer Assistance line at 1-800-829-1040.
How to check the status of an amended tax return?
Amended returns (Form 1040-X) have a separate tracking tool called "Where's My Amended Return?" on IRS.gov. These returns take significantly longer to process, typically up to 16 weeks.
How to ensure my tax return is processed smoothly?
Double-check all your information for accuracy before filing. Ensure your SSN, name, and filing status are correct. Make sure all income and deduction details are entered accurately to avoid discrepancies.
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