Has the IRS Received My Mailed Tax Return?
Tax season can be a stressful time for many individuals and businesses. One of the most common concerns during this period is whether the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has received the mailed tax return. The timely submission of tax returns is crucial to avoid penalties and interest on late payments. In this article, we will discuss the steps you can take to ensure that your mailed tax return has been received by the IRS.
Checking the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund” Tool
The IRS provides a convenient online tool called “Where’s My Refund” that allows taxpayers to check the status of their tax returns and refunds. To use this tool, you will need your Social Security number, filing status, and the amount of your refund. If you have mailed your tax return, it may take up to four weeks for the IRS to process it and update the “Where’s My Refund” tool with the status.
Tracking Your Mailed Tax Return
If you have not received confirmation from the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund” tool, you can take additional steps to track your mailed tax return. First, ensure that you have used the correct mailing address for the IRS. You can find the correct address on the IRS website or on the tax forms you filed. If you have used the correct address, here are some other steps you can take:
1. Check Your Mailbox: Make sure you have not overlooked your tax return in your mailbox. Sometimes, mail can be misdelivered or delayed.
2. Contact Your Postal Service: If you suspect that your tax return may have been lost in transit, you can contact your local postal service to inquire about the status of your mail.
3. Wait for the IRS to Contact You: If the IRS has not processed your tax return, they may contact you directly. Keep an eye on your mailbox for any notices from the IRS.
What to Do If Your Tax Return Has Not Been Received
If you have taken all the necessary steps and still have not received confirmation that your tax return has been received by the IRS, here are some additional actions you can take:
1. File an Amended Return: If you have not yet filed your tax return, you can file an amended return to correct any errors or provide additional information.
2. Contact the IRS: You can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 to inquire about the status of your tax return. Be prepared to provide your Social Security number, filing status, and other relevant information.
3. Seek Professional Help: If you are unable to resolve the issue on your own, consider seeking help from a tax professional or an accountant.
Conclusion
Receiving confirmation that the IRS has received your mailed tax return is an important step in the tax filing process. By using the “Where’s My Refund” tool, checking your mail, and contacting the IRS if necessary, you can ensure that your tax return is processed in a timely manner. Remember to keep copies of your tax return and any correspondence with the IRS for your records.
