With tax season “postponed” by 8 days by the IRS this year, some early filing taxpayers may be concerned about how long it will take to receive their refunds.    The IRS will not begin processing tax returns this year until January 30.  This is eight days later than originally planned.  They have said that refunds will not be delayed and will take about the same amount of time from the time the IRS processes the return for the refund to arrive.  They say you should receive refunds  in less than 21 calendar days after they receive your return.

The IRS has a “Where’s My Refund” page where taxpayers can check the status of their refund.  It is available at www.irs.gov but will not be available until January 30.   If you check your refund on this page, you will need your social security number, filing status , and the amount of the refund.  It would probably be a good idea to have a copy of your return available as you check the information.  The information will not be available until approximately 24 hours after the IRS receives your efiled return or 4 weeks after you mail a paper return.

If you have your refund deposited, the direct deposit will take place about 2 days quicker than the IRS will mail a paper refund check.

This year a large number of returns will continue to be delayed beyond January 30 due to the IRS needing more time to update their computers for changes in tax laws.  Most of these returns will be those which include depreciation forms, so it will effect most taxpayers with businesses or rental property.