Why is My NJ Tax Refund Taking So Long?
You’ve prepared and filed your taxes, and now the only thing left to do is receive your tax refund—except it’s late, leaving you to wonder: why is my NJ tax refund taking so long to arrive? Keep reading to learn the factors contributing to how long you’ll have to wait to receive your refund and how Tobin & Collins can help.
1. How You File
Once tax season officially starts in January, taxpayers can file their tax returns electronically or by mail. Most taxpayers will receive their tax refund within 21 days of filing, but it may be shorter or longer based on the method you choose to file. Here is an estimated timeframe for when you’ll receive your tax refund:
- E-File with Direct Deposit: 1-3 weeks
- Paper File with Direct Deposit: 3 weeks
- E-File with Check in the Mail: 1 month
- Paper File with Check in the Mail: 2 months
2. Missing Information
When you filed your tax return, you may have done so with incomplete or missing information, causing your tax return to be rejected. To remedy a rejected tax return, you can correct the error by fixing your return and re-submitting it to the IRS. If your information is correct—like your social security number and birthday—and your tax return shouldn’t have been rejected, you should contact the IRS and Social Security Administration to verify your records.
3. Claimed Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit
If you filed your tax return before February 15th and claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit, you may be experiencing delays. This is because the PATH (Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes) act passed in 2015 requires the IRS to hold the entire refund until February 15th, ensuring you receive what you are owed. However, you will not be impacted if you file and claim these credits after February 15th.
4. Fraudulent Activity
Your tax return may be delayed or rejected due to fraudulent activity, where someone uses your social security number to file a tax return. If this happens to you, contact the IRS immediately.
How to Safely & Efficiently File Your Tax Return in NJ
To ensure your tax return is filed on time and with the correct information, it’s best to work with Tobin & Collins. Our expert CPAs are ready to help you get the most out of tax season and answer any tax-related questions you may have. Contact us today for more information about our services and to get started with your tax preparation in NJ.
