Delays in IRS processing of 2020 tax returns and refunds

Due to the effects of the pandemic, and the necessity for staff to work from home, the IRS are facing a backlog of 35 million returns which have yet to be processed.

According to various news organisations including CBS News, the backlog commenced with the processing of 2019 tax returns that were delayed since the start of the pandemic in March 2020. Once staff recommenced work at their offices in 2021, these returns had to be processed first before they could commence processing 2020 tax returns which include the Recovery Rebate Credits.

A figure of 31 Million returns was mentioned for the end of May, and this increased to 35 Million as at the end of June.

US taxpayers will have to be patient until this backlog is cleared.