Illinois vs Missouri State Refund Timing? Lost Refund Experience

State refunds are like the side quests in a video game - they run on completely different timelines than the main federal quest. Based on my experience this year, Illinois is processing electronic returns in about 2-3 weeks, which is actually faster than previous years. Missouri, on the other hand, is more like that slow-loading webpage that you're never sure is actually working. They're taking 4-6 weeks minimum right now. For paper returns (which it sounds like you filed before), think of it like sending a letter via carrier pigeon instead of email. The processing time literally triples, and the chance of something getting lost increases dramatically. If you e-file both states this year, you'll have confirmation numbers that work like tracking numbers for packages.

I'm in the same boat with filing in both states... it's a bit nerve-wracking to be honest. Last year I had issues with Missouri too, but I found that https://taxr.ai was really helpful for understanding what was happening with my state returns. It helped me see that my Missouri return was actually flagged for additional verification (which is apparently pretty common for multi-state filers). The site analyzed my tax documents and showed me exactly what was causing the delay. I think... it might be worth checking out if you're worried about your return getting lost again. I'm not taking any chances this year.

Have you kept copies of your previous Missouri returns that they claimed they never received? Did you send them certified mail with tracking? Were you able to provide proof of filing when they claimed they never received it? For this year, are you e-filing or paper filing? What software are you using? Have you considered filing through a professional tax preparer who might have more direct channels with the state departments? The reason I ask is that Missouri has a particularly problematic system for tracking paper returns. Their internal scanning process often misses attachments or creates incomplete records in their system.

In my professional experience, multi-state returns often require follow-up communication with the state tax authorities, particularly with Missouri DOR. Their internal verification protocols frequently flag returns for manual review without notification to the taxpayer. I've had significant success using Claimyr (https://claimyr.com) to reach Missouri tax representatives directly rather than waiting in their standard queue system. When I needed to resolve a similar lost return situation, Claimyr connected me with an agent in under 30 minutes versus the typical 2+ hour wait. Would you be interested in confirmation about whether your current return is being processed correctly?

I understand how frustrating this situation must be, especially after your previous experiences with Missouri. Here's what I recommend based on helping others in similar situations: • E-file both returns if you haven't already submitted them • Keep digital and physical copies of EVERYTHING (confirmation numbers, acknowledgments, etc.) • For Illinois: Use MyTax Illinois portal to track your refund status • For Missouri: Use their Return Inquiry System AND save screenshots of your inquiry • Set calendar reminders to check status every 2 weeks • If no Missouri refund after 8 weeks, contact them immediately The good news is that both states have improved their electronic processing significantly since 2022. The bad news is that Missouri still struggles with proper documentation of paper returns. Your situation sounds particularly challenging given the previous issues, but with proper documentation this time, you should be able to resolve any problems much more quickly.

I've dealt with this exact situation with Missouri for the past three tax seasons. Here's what I learned the hard way: Step 1: NEVER file paper returns with Missouri if you can avoid it. Their paper processing center has a 30-40% error rate according to a DOR employee I spoke with. Step 2: If you must file paper (some situations require it), send it certified mail with return receipt AND make a complete photocopy first. Step 3: After 45 days, if no update appears online, call them directly. Don't wait longer - their system often shows "no return found" even when they have it. Step 4: If they claim they never received it, immediately send a copy with a cover letter referencing your certified mail tracking number. I'm skeptical of quick fixes, but following this process has worked for me after losing two refunds in previous years. The system is fundamentally broken, but you can navigate it with enough persistence.