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For the taxpayers who went through the painstaking process of sifting through their shoebox full of receipts in the attempt to file their income tax return early, we have to offer you a gentle and friendly reminder that refunds stemming from returns claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit or the Additional Child Tax credit will be delayed until February 15. 

Some taxpayers may have heard rumors circulating about “hidden” ways to receive their refund faster or how to determine the date their refund will arrive. Yes, even in the world of tax accounting, one will hear gossip on the street. A few of the more prevalent rumors include calling the IRS, using the “Where’s My Refund” tool onIRS.gov, or contacting your accountant.

Related read: Why You Will Not Receive a Tax Refund Before February 15

While contacting the IRS may be useful to some, understand that IRS Agents or even the useful “Where’s My Refund” online tool cannot provide a release date for any refunds that have the Earned Income Tax credit or Additional Child Tax credit as those returns are on “refund hold” by the IRS.

In addition, while your accountant has accurately prepared and filed your tax return in a timely manner, he or she does not have the ability to give you your refund date. Although the IRS may approve your refund for processing and release by February 15^th, understand it may be yet another week or two until you have the check in hand. According to the IRS website: “While the IRS will begin to issue EITC/ACTC refunds starting Feb. 15, you should not count on actually seeing your refund until the week of Feb. 27 -- if you chose direct deposit or a debit card and there are no processing issues with your tax return.” (https://www.irs.gov/individuals/refund-timing)

Income tax filing – and waiting, can be frustrating. We are here to help. If you have questions about your refund, tax obligation, or income tax preparation, let's talk! Contact me at ejames@zinnerco.com or any of our professionals at 216.831.0733. We're ready to start the conversation and end the confusion.