I just double-checked all my banking info and everything looks correct. My boss was super careful when entering everything. Is there any way to confirm with the IRS that they have the right account number on file?

Unfortunately, you can't verify the exact account details the IRS has on file through the Where's My Refund tool. The best way to confirm would be to speak with an IRS representative directly, which goes back to the challenge of reaching someone. If your return was e-filed through H&R Block, you could also contact them to verify what banking information was submitted with your return. They should have records of exactly what was sent to the IRS.

This is so true. The IRS sent me a letter asking for proof my kid lived with me, and it got lost in a pile of junk mail. I never responded and my refund was delayed for MONTHS.

Did you claim any credits like EIC or child tax credit? I heard those automatically delay processing. I'm on day 25 of waiting and getting nervous...

No special credits at all, which is why I was surprised by the delay. Just a totally vanilla return with W-2 income and the standard deduction. From what I've gathered reading online, even the simplest returns seem to be taking longer this year. The IRS apparently prioritizes certain returns with credits for lower-income filers, which is understandable, but it means even simple returns can sit in the queue longer than usual.

Try calling the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040. I was stuck in "still processing" for almost a month, called them, and found out there was a simple identity verification issue they never bothered to notify me about. After verifying my identity, I got my refund in 9 days.

14 Wait, we don't have a legal right to benefits even though we're forced to pay into the system? That seems completely unfair! How is that constitutional?

5 The court essentially ruled that Social Security is a social program, not a contract, and Congress retains the right to alter, amend, or repeal any provision of the Social Security Act. The case specifically involved a person who was denied benefits after being deported for being a member of the Communist party. While it might seem unfair, the constitutional basis is that Congress has broad powers to tax and spend for the general welfare. The FICA tax is considered a valid exercise of this power, and benefits are authorized spending programs that can be modified. This is different from private contracts or property rights that have stronger constitutional protections.

17 This is why I'm always confused when younger people say they're planning as if Social Security won't exist. Even if it faces funding challenges, some version of it will almost certainly continue. The political consequences of eliminating it would be too severe.

Wouldn't mailing take forever to process though? I heard the IRS has massive backlogs with paper returns and it could take 6+ months. Would FAFSA accept just a mailing receipt as proof of filing?

Current processing time for paper returns is about 6-8 weeks, not 6 months. That used to be the case during COVID, but they've caught up significantly. Most financial aid offices understand the IRS processing timelines and will accept proof of mailing (certified mail receipt) as temporary documentation while the return processes. You can follow up by ordering a tax transcript once it's processed, which is what they ultimately want to see. Just contact your financial aid office first to confirm this approach works for them - different schools have different policies.

Thanks for bringing this up! I actually looked into this. Even though they weren't required to file based on the income threshold, they had federal taxes withheld from their paychecks. So we're filing to get that refunded - it's about $300 which would help with college expenses. Also, their college financial aid office specifically requested a 2022 tax return or transcript rather than the non-filing statement. Apparently, they've had issues with the non-filing verification process this year.

That makes perfect sense. Getting that $300 back is definitely worth filing for, and if the school specifically wants the return rather than a non-filing statement, you're on the right track. Just as an FYI for future reference, for very low incomes like this, your child might be able to claim "exempt" on their W-4 to avoid having federal tax withheld in the first place. That way they get all their money upfront instead of waiting for a refund. Something to consider for their current job if applicable!

I messed up my W-4 last year and had way too little withheld. Ended up owing $1200 at tax time that I wasn't expecting! Is there an easy way to estimate how much should be withheld?

The IRS has a tax withholding estimator tool on their website that's actually pretty good. You enter your income, filing status, and other details, and it gives you the exact numbers to put on your W-4. If you're worried about owing again, you can also just put a specific additional amount to withhold on line 4(c) of the W-4. Even an extra $25-50 per paycheck can make a big difference at tax time and give you a buffer. Better to get a small refund than owe money you haven't budgeted for!

Thanks so much for this breakdown! I had no idea about all these differences. I'm definitely going to ask for the W-4 form when I go in tomorrow. If they keep pushing for the W-9, I'll show them this explanation about why I should be classified as an employee. Is there anything specific I should say if they try to insist on the W-9? I don't want to lose this job but also don't want to get stuck with a huge tax bill later.

Just be straightforward but polite. Say something like: "I've done some research, and based on my role here, I should be classified as an employee and fill out a W-4. Employee classification is determined by IRS rules, not by preference." If they still push back, you could mention that employee misclassification is something the IRS takes seriously, and you're concerned about potential tax issues down the road. You could also ask what specifically about your role makes them think you should be a contractor rather than an employee. As a last resort, you can always contact your state's Department of Labor or the IRS directly for clarification. But hopefully a straightforward conversation will resolve it!