Delay in IRS Acceptance?
In the past, I've e-filed my own returns with different types of software (including FreeTaxUSA last year) as well as hundreds of returns as a tax preparation volunteer. I have NEVER had to wait for a return to be accepted or rejected for more than 30 minutes or so.
I e-filed my 2023 returns on Sunday (4/7) morning, and now, almost a full day later, they have neither been accepted nor rejected. What is causing this delay?
Best Answers
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UPDATE: It was finally accepted at 11:28 AM (PDT) today. I'm still curious about the delay.
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Hi JMS,
Thank you for reporting back on your experience. The average response time for an IRS acceptance is typically very rapid and I think all of us get used to that. However, the normal response time for the IRS is actually 24-48 hours.
It may be related to the IRS implementing additional checks on returns.
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I, too, am concerned. The Free Tax system didn't lead me to specify the companies that paid dividends, as last year, nor a Schedule D for a stock sale. It should ask questions if something is missing. Instead I plowed ahead, declaring the total amount of dividends, but attributed them to Charles Schwab, which paid them. and only noticed the difference comparing last year's return with this year's. I'm afraid my returns will be flagged. Now, it's more than a day, and my friend's was just accepted in less than an hour. I tried to amend the return, but it won't allow it until the IRS makes a decision, which may take us past April 15. The support staff has not been very helpful, and I wonder if I should just file again.
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Hi Michael_WGAW2025,
When did your return finally get accepted? 24-48 hours is generally the max unless there is a major issue.
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I have been filing my own taxes for 10 years. Always going through H & R Block. This year went through FreeTaxUSA. Submitted return in March. IRS site said received by they haven't accepted it and it is Dec. Guess I will be going back to H & R Block.
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Hi Gris,
I understand how frustrating it can be when your refund is delayed. We cannot control how long the IRS takes to process returns and issue refunds. Generally, it only takes a week when you e-file, but there are variables out of our control.
I recommend that you check the IRS website, "Where's my refund?" https://www.irs.gov/wheres-my-refund
The IRS will have information when your return was processed and when a refund was issued. Make sure your banking information on your account is correct.
Did you also file a state tax return with us? Was it processed? Did you get a refund or pay taxes to the state? How did that process go? If it was processed smoothly, then that may indicate there is something else going on.
I suggest you contact our Customer Support on your account and see what information they can help you with as well.
We sure would like to help you out and keep you as a customer.0 -
I’ve probably check Where’s my refund 50 times. No change in status. Filed state return and had to pay. It was accepted. I contacted Customer Support but they offered no assistance. Said they couldn’t help once return was accepted. What about the offer for more assistance if paying more.
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Hi Gris,
It sounds like you are taking the right steps. Based on what you are saying, the IRS has your return and it has been delayed. You can contact the IRS at 800-829-1040 and check what the hold up is.
You could also contact Taxpayer Advocate Services and see if they can help.
FreeTaxUSA is unable to represent you with the IRS, even when paying for additional support services, like Deluxe or Tax Pro.
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