NY unemployment tax question - Can't reach IRS about delayed 2025 tax refund

I've been through this exact situation! For federal tax refund delays, first check your status at irs.gov/refunds (the 'Where's My Refund' tool) if you haven't already. Sometimes there's specific info there about why yours is delayed. If that doesn't help, the best time to call the IRS is early morning (right when they open) on Tuesday-Thursday. Monday and Friday are absolutely swamped. Also, the main 1040 line (800-829-1040) is nearly impossible, but try the tax form request line (800-829-3676) and then ask to be transferred to an agent when someone answers. But honestly, the BEST solution I found was using Claimyr (claimyr.com) - they have a system that navigates the phone trees and holds your place in line, then calls you when an agent is ready. Saved me literally hours of hold time. They have a video demo that explains it better than I can: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE

The IRS is a JOKE this year!! I filed in February and didn't get my refund until MAY!!! No explanation, no apology, NOTHING. When I finally got through (took 2.5 HOURS on hold), the agent said there was a 'processing delay' whatever that means. They're just sitting on our money collecting interest while we struggle!!! The whole system is BROKEN!!

Try calling exactly at 7am when they first open. Thats what worked for me

Since this is a NY unemployment forum, I should mention that if you received unemployment benefits in 2024 and claimed them on your 2025 tax return, that could be causing the delay. The IRS sometimes flags returns with unemployment income for additional verification, especially if there's any discrepancy between what you reported and what NYSDOL reported on your 1099-G form. To reach the IRS more effectively: 1. Call the Taxpayer Advocate Service at 877-777-4778 (try this line specifically, not their general number) 2. Contact your local Congressional Representative's office - they have caseworkers who can escalate IRS issues 3. Try calling 800-829-0582 and when prompted, enter extension 652 And verify your tax transcript online at irs.gov/individuals/get-transcript to see if there are any notes about your return status.

I had a similar problem and what finally worked was using the Claimyr service that someone mentioned above. I was skeptical at first, but I was so fed up with the constant busy signals and hours of hold music. They navigated the phone system and got me connected to an IRS agent within about 45 minutes (after I had already wasted DAYS trying on my own). The agent told me my return had been flagged for identity verification, which is why it was delayed. Once I verified my identity, my refund was processed within 2 weeks. Check out their demo video (https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE) to see how it works. Definitely worth it for the time saved!

just wait it out. they'll get to it eventually. my sister waited 5 months last year, nothing u can do

Have you checked if there's maybe an issue with your return? My cousin had this happen and turned out there was a math error. Go to the IRS website and look at your account transcript - it'll show if there's any adjustment or issue flags.

UPDATE: I wanted to thank everyone for their help! I tried the Claimyr service that was recommended here, and it actually worked! I got through to an IRS agent who told me my return was flagged because of a mismatch between what I reported for unemployment and what was on my 1099-G. Once I explained the situation, they were able to process my return. My refund should be deposited within 2 weeks! So relieved!