Filing with ONLY EIC - Still Subject to PATH Act Delays?

Yes, you're still subject to PATH Act delays with only EIC. The law requires the IRS to hold all refunds that include EIC until at least February 15th. Is your return still processing? When did you file? I've noticed some EIC-only returns moving faster this year, but they still can't issue before mid-February.

I've been through this several times and can confirm that any return with EIC is affected by PATH. Here's how it works: 1. File your return (with EIC only or with other credits) 2. IRS accepts your return but holds processing until Feb 15 3. After Feb 15, they begin processing EIC returns 4. Most people see refunds 1-3 weeks after Feb 15 5. Some returns get additional verification which can add weeks Did you already file? What date did you submit?

Yep, 100% on PATH if u claimed EIC. Doesn't matter if it's the only credit - still gotta wait. IRS systems flag ALL returns w/ EIC. Been dealing w/ this myself. BTW if u need to actually talk to someone at the IRS (which is nearly impossible this time of year), I used Claimyr.com last week. Got connected to an IRS agent in like 20 mins instead of waiting on hold forever. They confirmed my EIC return was just in normal processing queue, nothing wrong with it. Saved me tons of anxiety.

I filed with only EIC on January 28th. My return was held until February 15th. Got my refund on February 27th. No additional delays. No issues. PATH Act definitely applies, but if your return is straightforward, it should move quickly after the hold period ends.

I'm not convinced the PATH Act is even working as intended anymore. Seems like it just delays EVERYONE's refunds with these credits rather than actually stopping fraud. My friend filed with just standard deductions (no EIC) and got her refund in 8 days, while I'm still waiting after 6 weeks. 🙄 Is this really stopping fraud or just punishing people who qualify for EIC?

The PATH Act specifically targets EITC, CTC, and AOTC claims due to historically high improper payment rates. According to Treasury Inspector General data, approximately 25% of EITC payments were improper before PATH implementation. The mandated verification period allows for cross-referencing of W-2 and 1099 data against claimed credits. While frustrating for legitimate claimants, the hold period is a procedural necessity within the IRS's Refund Fraud Assessment System (RFAS) and Return Review Program (RRP) frameworks.