Why Your IRS Refund May Be Delayed (Bank Account Info) | Tax Refund Guide

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Why delays happen How to prevent If already delayed FAQ

Why Your IRS Refund May Be Delayed This Year

One of the most common (and most overlooked) reasons refunds are delayed is incorrect or changed bank account information for direct deposit. A single digit can turn a fast refund into weeks of waiting.

Direct deposit accuracy matters New/changed accounts may trigger extra review

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Verify Bank Info Checklist Read FAQs

How Direct Deposit Refunds Work

When you choose direct deposit, the IRS sends your refund electronically using two key numbers:

• Routing number (identifies your bank)
• Account number (identifies your account)

If either number is incorrect—or your account changed since last year—your deposit may be rejected, delayed, or rerouted into manual processing.

Why Bank Account Issues Cause Delays

1) Wrong account number Common

A single wrong digit can cause a rejected deposit and force the IRS to reissue your refund.

2) Closed or old bank account Very common

If you switched banks and didn’t update your return, your refund may bounce back and be mailed later.

3) Security and fraud checks Possible review

New or changed deposit info may trigger extra review to prevent identity theft and refund fraud.

4) Multiple accounts or split refunds Double-check

When refunds are split across accounts, mistakes are easier—verify every entry carefully.

A Simple Example

You changed banks in January. Your tax return still has last year’s account number. The IRS sends the refund, the bank rejects it, and the IRS must reprocess payment—often by mailing a check. That “small” mismatch can add weeks of delay.

Refund Delay Prevention Checklist

Do this before you file:

✅ Verify

Routing number

✅ Verify

Account number

✅ Confirm

Account is active

✅ Update

If you changed banks

! Don’t guess—copy numbers from your bank app or statement.

If Your Refund Is Already Delayed

• Check IRS status using “Where’s My Refund?”
• If the deposit is rejected, expect reprocessing and/or a mailed check
• Confirm your bank account details and watch mail delivery timelines
• If you used a preparer, contact them for guidance

Go to FAQs

FAQ

How long do refunds usually take with direct deposit?

Many refunds arrive within about 7–21 days after the IRS accepts your return, but timing varies. Errors, verification checks, and account issues can extend the timeline.

What happens if the IRS sends my refund to the wrong account?

Often the bank rejects the deposit if the account doesn’t match. The funds return to the IRS, and the IRS may reissue the refund—commonly as a paper check—after additional processing time.

Why does a new bank account sometimes trigger extra review?

Refund fraud is common. If deposit details change, automated systems may apply extra verification to protect taxpayers from identity theft and stolen refunds.

What’s the easiest way to avoid this problem?

Copy your routing and account numbers directly from your bank’s official app, statement, or a check. If you changed banks, do not reuse last year’s information.

Quick Reminder

• Correct bank info = faster refund
• Wrong or changed account = possible delay

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Disclaimer: This page is for general educational information and is not legal or tax advice. For guidance specific to your situation, consult a qualified tax professional.

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