What this notice is about We tried to direct deposit your refund, but the financial institution couldn’t process it. When refund payments are questionable, we review related returns to ensure the return is valid. We are researching your account, but it will take 8 to 10 weeks to complete our review and verify this refund. What you need to do You don’t need to do anything at this time. You may want to Call us at the toll-free number on the notice if you don’t receive your refund check or a follow-up letter within 10 weeks Monitor your financial accounts However, if you call us before 10 weeks have passed, we won’t have any information about the status of your refund. Frequently asked questions Why was my direct deposit refund returned to the IRS? A financial institution will reject a refund for a variety of reasons. Most often, the personal information on the direct deposit doesn’t match its records: Name SSN Routing number Why could the refund review take up to 10 weeks? We must research your account to determine if you are entitled to the refund. We try to balance customer service and tax compliance when we review tax returns. Refund timeframes are also affected by: Bankruptcy An open audit A balance due on a related account (such as a different tax year) Will calling the IRS give me additional information or speed my refund? No, calling us won’t speed up your refund. You don’t need to call us unless we send you a letter asking you to contact us. Our telephone assistors won’t be able to provide any additional information. Tips for next year If you request a direct deposit refund, be sure the account you specify is in your name (or your spouse’s if you have a joint refund). If you changed your name as a result of a recent marriage or divorce, take the necessary steps to ensure the name on your tax return matches the name registered with the Social Security Administration. Never direct your refund to an account that belongs to a relative, friend, or tax return preparer. Reference Tools Publication 1, Your Rights as a Taxpayer PDF Publication 5027, Identity Theft Information for Taxpayers PDF Full list of tax forms and instructions Need help? You can authorize someone to contact the IRS on your behalf. See if you qualify for help from a Low Income Taxpayer Clinic. If you can’t find what you need online, call the IRS number at the top of your notice or letter.
