Overview
- Missing or invalid banking details trigger a CP53E notice that puts the refund on hold for 30 days, and a paper check typically follows about six weeks later if no update is provided.
- Paper checks are being phased out under federal policy, with limited exceptions and a waiver request available through IRS Online Account, and alternatives include prepaid debit cards and digital wallets.
- The National Taxpayer Advocate reports roughly a 27% drop in IRS staffing and a 22% cut to customer-service agents, raising the likelihood of processing delays and longer wait times for assistance.
- A partial government shutdown could pause many refunds based on prior IRS guidance, though IRS CEO Frank Bisignano says payments will continue, with past exceptions applied to error-free e-filed returns paid by direct deposit.
- Analysts project larger refunds this year—around $4,200 on average due to 2025 tax changes—and taxpayers can track status via Where’s My Refund or IRS2Go for updates on return received, refund approved, and refund sent.