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New IRS Income Tax Refund Dates for 2017: EITC Credit Delayed Refunds

The IRS says that refunds are coming. Really- they mean it this time.

Feb. 22, 2017

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If you’re still waiting on your 2017 IRS income tax refund (even though some of your friends and neighbors have already received theirs), you’re not alone. You probably know by now that there have been delays- but here’s the good news: The IRS says that refunds are coming. Really- they mean it this time.

[“When will I get my 2017 income tax refund from the IRS?”]

The IRS says that income tax refunds that were delayed because of the Earned Income Tax Credit or the Child Tax Credit (EITC or CITC) should start being direct deposited the week of February 27. All refunds with these credits were delayed until now, whether they were filed last week or last month. This is because of an effort by the IRS to fight tax scammers, who often try to claim these valuable income tax credits.

There are other reasons your refund might be delayed, but you can check the latest time estimate by going to IRS tool “Where’s My Refund or asking your tax preparer. You can also get a mobile app to check on your refund status: (Apple, Android).

[2017 IRS Tax Refunds Coming Week of Feb. 27.]

Here’s the chart:

[Income Tax Refund Late? Here’s When You
Should Get It – 2017 IRS Refund Schedule.]

[When Will You Get Your 2017 Income Tax Refund?
IRS Says Delay for Late Refunds Is Almost Over.]

This information is for income tax returns you filed in 2017 (technically for taxes paid/owed in 2016). In general, the IRS says that returns with refunds are processed and payments issued within 21 days. For paper filers, this can take much longer, however. The IRS and tax professionals strongly encourage electronic filing.

[The Top Income Tax Refund Myths.]

How quickly a taxpayer receives a refund also depends on when they file and whether they have requested a direct deposit of their refund, or a paper check. This is because during some time frames there is increased traffic, with more filers getting their forms in. The busiest time, and which can experience longer waits on refunds, is usually for those who file in the last week before the April 15 deadline.

The chart above provides a general estimate of when taxpayers can expect their refund, based on date filed and type of refund payment.