If your Delaware state tax refund still hasn’t hit your bank account, you’re not alone.
Many Delawareans have been wondering why their state tax refund is taking weeks to end up in their pockets. If this sounds like your current predicament, we’ve got some answers to help you out.
When is the Delaware state income tax deadline?
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) began accepting and processing tax returns in January. They were due by April 18, unless you were granted an extension.
Delaware began processing 2022 individual state income tax returns on Jan. 23, according to the state’s Division of Revenue.
The filing deadline for personal state income tax is Monday, May 1.
When should I expect my Delaware state tax refund?
Although federal returns are expected to be refunded within 21 days of electronic filing, according to the IRS, Delaware state tax returns operate a bit differently.
The Delaware Division of Revenue began issuing refunds on Feb. 15 and has since seen a 5% increase in the number of refund requests.
Returns with “fewer complexities” may process faster than returns where inconsistencies require further manual review, said the Division of Revenue.
Tax legislation:Lawmakers pass tax relief bill that could put more money in your pocket: The Press Room
The average processing time to date for returns without any agency review has been eight days. More complex returns currently average 34 calendar days.
Overall, the division’s automated systems indicate that it can take 10 to 12 weeks for review, according to the Division of Revenue.
Delaware Division of Revenue using new system
Aside from data errors drawing out refund windows, the division is operating on a new system that is different than the process of review for previous years.
The second phase of the division’s new, modernized tax system, with a focus on personal income tax, was implemented in October.
As part of this new effort, the division was “careful to monitor system progress to help quickly identify system anomalies and ensure proper functioning” and take any additional steps needed to prevent fraud that may target new systems, said the Division of Revenue.
“We are working diligently to quickly process refunds while also working to prevent fraud and ensure the accuracy of amounts claimed,” said Kathy Revel, director of revenue.
Tax filing tips
Residents are encouraged to file their taxes online at tax.delaware.gov or to go through other electronic filing programs to receive their refunds faster. Requesting refunds by direct deposit also will improve refund processing, said the Division of Revenue.
If you need a filing extension, requests must be made by May 1.
