Many families depend on their tax refund to help them pay off a bill or debt, to get a little extra something for the family that they have been putting off or to make needed repairs or home improvements. Whatever the reason, many people, especially those that filed online, want to know "Where's my refund?"
MSN Money offers this tutorial and tool for checking on "Where's my refund?" to help you track the status of your IRS filing. They advise that electronic filings could actually show a return in 10 days, but paper filings will: take longer.
The IRS offers this advice on the FAQs 2012 page:
"The estimated refund date initially provided via “Where's My Refund” is just that, an estimate based on a best-case scenario in which the tax return was filed accurately and there are no corrections or reviews required. However, there are many factors that could affect the processing of a taxpayer's return that may also change the estimated date the refund will be issued."
NewsRadio reports that problems with the new IRS e-filing system could cause tax return delays. (Watch the news report here)
A new system, called Modernized e-File, was supposed to make everything faster but isn't working right. Friday, the IRS asked preparers not to use it at all. And that means it could take extra time for your refund to find its way to you.
They also report that the problems with the system are making it difficult to use the "Where's my refund" tool.
If you haven't prepared your taxes yet, there is still time. There are many online services like TurboTax and H&R Block or you can visit a tax preparer in person.
Here is a sampling of tax preparers in Houston:
- H&R Block locations in Houston
- Jackson Hewitt locations in Houston
- Neighborhood Tax Help offer free tax assistance in Houston. There are 16 branches throughout the Houston area. Here's a PDF to help you find one near you.
- Many Harris County Branch Libraries are also helping with tax prep classes. Be sure to visit the Harris County Library calendar online for the branch, dates and times of classes near you.
For more information on your refund and tax filing you the IRS now has smartphone apps and a YouTube channel.
Just remember don't count your chickens, I mean your money before it's returned.
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