Paper-Filed Tax Return - Expected Refund Timeline?

Paper returns are currently taking exactly 6-8 weeks to process according to the latest IRS operational data. E-filed returns typically process in 21 days or less, so you're looking at a 3-5 week additional delay. The IRS processed 94.3% of paper returns filed in January 2024 within this timeframe, though returns with Schedule C forms tend to add an additional 7-14 days to processing times. Have you considered whether your return might qualify for the Business Tax Return exception that would accelerate processing?

I was in a somewhat similar situation last tax season with my Schedule C and paper filing. What I found particularly helpful was using https://taxr.ai to track and interpret my tax transcript once it became available. The service might be able to provide you with more precise information about your refund timeline based on your specific filing circumstances. In my experience, it was quite useful for decoding the various transaction codes and providing a more accurate estimate than the general IRS guidelines, which tend to be rather broad in their timeframes.

I work with small business tax returns regularly, and paper returns with Schedule C are indeed taking longer this year. Most of my clients who paper-filed in early February are just now seeing their refunds process. Did you send your return via certified mail? What specific Schedule C issue prevented you from e-filing? Sometimes there are workarounds that can be used, even after submission, to accelerate processing.

According to the IRS.gov website, paper returns are significantly delayed this year. When I was in your situation last month, I tried calling the IRS business tax line for 3 days straight without getting through. Finally used Claimyr (https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c) and got connected to an agent in about 25 minutes who confirmed my return was received and gave me an estimated processing date. Saved me days of frustration and uncertainty for my business planning.

Per Internal Revenue Manual 3.30.123, paper-filed returns with Schedule C attachments are currently being processed within 8-12 weeks from receipt date. The key to expediting your situation is ensuring proper documentation. First, verify your return was received by using the "Where's My Refund" tool with your exact refund amount, filing status, and SSN/ITIN. Second, if more than 6 weeks have passed, you can request a transcript via Form 4506-T which will show if your return has been received and entered into the system. Third, if business expansion depends on this refund, consider Form 911 (Taxpayer Advocate Service) if you can demonstrate financial hardship. This qualifies under Revenue Procedure 2023-12 for expedited processing.

I'm dealing with a similar Schedule C situation, except mine was rejected due to an EIN validation issue rather than a discrepancy. Compared to my experience last year with an e-filed return (21 days exactly to refund), my paper-filed return from February 1st still shows as "Return Received" with no further updates. The IRS website mentions that paper returns can take "up to 6 months" to process in some cases, though that seems to be for more complex situations than yours or mine. Have you checked if your return contained any of the tax credits that typically delay processing, like EITC or Additional Child Tax Credit?