Tax season can be a stressful time of year, especially when you’re waiting to hear back from the IRS about your tax return. It can feel like an eternity, but the good news is that you don’t always have to wait that long. How long does it take for the IRS to accept a return? It depends on a few factors, but knowing a few key details can help you better understand the timeline and plan ahead.
Hurry Up and Wait: A Tax Time Tale
It can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks for the IRS to process your return. If you e-file your taxes and receive an immediate confirmation from the IRS, your return has been accepted. This means that your return is in the system and you can start looking forward to your refund. On the other hand, if you file a paper tax return, it can take up to eight weeks for the IRS to process it.
Be Patient, Your Tax Refund Is On Its Way!
Although it can be frustrating to wait, the IRS is hard at work processing returns. With advanced technology and improved processing speeds, returns may be accepted even faster than before. To take some of the pressure off of yourself, try to file your taxes as early as possible. This way, you’ll be able to get your refund sooner rather than later.
Although it can be difficult to wait, understanding the timeline of a tax return will help you plan and prepare for the future. With the right knowledge, you’ll rest easy knowing that your return is being processed safely and securely by the IRS.