Many refund delays trace back to small mismatches — names and Social Security numbers, bank details, missing income or a missing signature. A two-minute check before you submit prevents a lot of them.
1. Wrong or mismatched Social Security numbers
Names and SSNs must match Social Security records exactly. Check cards, especially after a marriage or divorce name change.
2. Bank account errors
A transposed digit in a routing or account number can send a refund to the wrong place or bounce it. Copy numbers from a check or your bank app.
3. Missing income
Leaving off a W-2, 1099 or interest statement causes a mismatch with IRS records. Use an IRS wage and income transcript to confirm. See transcripts.
4. Wrong filing status
Especially head of household without a qualifying person. See filing status.
5. Claiming a dependent someone else already claimed
Your e-file will be rejected. See dependent rules.
6. Math errors
Software prevents most of these; on paper, double-check. The IRS often corrects simple errors but it adds time.
7. Filing on paper
Paper returns need manual handling and take longer. E-file with direct deposit if you can.
8. Filing too early without all documents
Brokerage and corrected forms sometimes arrive late. Filing before you have them risks an amended return. See what you need.
9. Claiming credits incorrectly
EITC and child tax credit claims get extra review; follow the rules and keep records. See EITC.
10. Not signing or e-signing correctly
Returns need signatures. When e-filing, the prior-year AGI or Identity Protection PIN is used; enter it exactly.
11. Ignoring IRS letters
An identity verification letter or request for documents must be answered by the deadline; refunds are held until you do.
12. Filing twice
Submitting duplicate returns, or refiling because the tool hasn’t updated, can slow processing.
A quick pre-filing check
- SSNs and names match.
- Bank numbers are right.
- All income forms are in.
- Status and dependents are right.
- You’ve e-filed and saved a copy.
Track progress with Where’s My Refund? and read our refund guide.
Official sources
General information only — not tax, legal or financial advice. Tax figures change every year; verify the current numbers at IRS.gov or with a qualified professional. Read the full disclaimer.