Are Electronically Filed Tax Returns Delayed?

The IRS says that several services are affected by these issues, including a slowdown of reviewing newly filed tax returns—even if they're filed electronically. This in turn can delay the issuing of refunds. In normal years, most tax refunds filed electronically are issued within 21 days.

Why are electronically filed tax returns delayed?

Tax returns are opened and processed in the order received. As the return is processed, whether it was filed electronically or on paper, it may be delayed because it has a mistake including errors concerning the Recovery Rebate Credit, is missing information, or there is suspected identity theft or fraud.

How long do electronically filed tax refunds take?

If you file a complete and accurate paper tax return, your refund should be issued in about six to eight weeks from the date IRS receives your return. If you file your return electronically, your refund should be issued in less than three weeks, even faster when you choose direct deposit.