Tax Topic 152 is a reference code from the IRS that indicates your tax refund is processing longer than usual. If you encounter this code while checking the IRS’s Where’s My Refund tool, it suggests that there may be delays in processing your refund.
But, there’s no need to worry — it simply means your refund is in the queue for some extra attention. We’re here to help you understand what’s going on, confidently navigate potential issues, and seek a quick resolution.
What is Tax Topic 152?
Tax Topic 152 is the IRS’s reference code to inform taxpayers that their refund is processing longer than usual. You’d likely come across this code using the Where’s My Refund tool. Essentially, it serves as a notification that, although your refund is being processed, it may not be completed in the typical 21-day timeframe.
While Tax Topic 152 can indicate possible delays, it does not automatically suggest there is a problem with your tax return. Several factors can influence the processing time, including the need for additional review, discrepancies in the information provided, or high volumes of returns being processed.
If you see tax topic 152, it doesn’t necessarily mean you need to take immediate action. However, you should monitor your refund status. Make sure to check the Where’s My Refund? tool regularly for any updates. If it has been more than 21 days since your return was accepted and you still see this code, consider reaching out to the IRS for assistance. They can provide further insights into your refund status and any potential issues.
Why you may be seeing Tax Topic 152
There are several reasons why you could be seeing Tax Topic 152.
- You filed a paper return. Tax returns filed the traditional way will take longer than those submitted online.
- You claimed an injured spouse on your tax return. Your injured spouse’s claim must be approved before processing your refund.
- You claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit. If you claim these tax credits, it takes more time to verify your eligibility and determine the value of your credit.
- The refund is from an amended return. It can sometimes take up to 20 weeks to get a refund from an amended return.
- You may be requesting a refund from a tax withheld on Form 1042-S by filing Form 1040-NR
- You applied for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you’ve applied for an ITIN, that request must be processed before your tax return is accepted.
- You chose a refund type that typically takes longer to process, like getting a check in the mail.
- It can take longer to process if you submit your tax return after the due date. Remember, the sooner you file your tax return, the sooner you’ll get your refund.
How long does Tax Topic 152 take to process?
The IRS processes most refunds within 21 days after a return is accepted. However, if you see Tax Topic 152 related to your tax refund, it indicates that the IRS is still processing your refund. Discrepancies on your tax return or the need for further review can impact how long it takes to process. The specific timeline will depend on the individual details of your return.
If your refund is taking longer than expected, there are a few things you can try:
- Check your refund status: Use the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool to check for updates on your refund status, which can clarify any pending issues.
- Contact the IRS: If it has been more than 21 days since you filed and you still see reference code 152, consider contacting the IRS for assistance and further information.
- Check with your bank: If you still haven’t received your refund, it’s a good idea to check with your bank to see if the transaction is in progress or pending.
When should my refund be delivered?
If you’ve seen Tax Topic 152 on your IRS account, your refund will likely take longer than 21 days to arrive. It doesn’t mean you’ve done anything wrong, or that you won’t get your refund. It’s just an indication that your return is still being processed and has yet to be accepted or rejected.
According to the IRS, 9 out of 10 refunds are delivered in 21 days or less. This timeframe depends on when you submit your tax return and when the IRS accepts it. If you’re unsure when to expect your refund, check out this year’s refund schedule to determine when it may arrive.
What does it mean if Tax Topic 152 disappears?
If Tax Topic 152 disappears from your IRS online account or tax return status, it typically means the IRS has finished processing your tax return and your refund has been issued or there’s no additional review required.
If you don’t receive your refund once Tax Topic 152 is gone, you might check with your bank to see if the transaction is pending or contact the IRS for further information.
How to avoid future processing delays
Sometimes delays are out of your control, but there are some things you can do to prevent your refund from being delayed.
Before you sit down to file your tax return, make sure you have the following:
- Personal info for yourself, your dependents, and/or spouse, such as Social Security numbers (SSN) and birthdates
- A copy of last year’s tax return
- Your Identity Protection PIN (if applicable)
- Your ITIN (if applicable)
Filing an accurate tax return is key to your refund arriving as soon as possible, without delays. Always double-check your tax return to ensure your information is correct.
You can also speed up your refund’s processing time by filing as soon as possible and choosing to receive your refund through direct deposit.
What is Tax Topic 303?
Tax Topic 303 is another reference number that might appear when checking your refund status. This topic notifies you of possible errors in the information entered on your tax return. These common tax filing mistakes could include:
- Incorrect or illegible name, ITIN, ZIP code, or address
- Incorrect filing status or dependent information
- Missing names or ITINs for those listed on the tax return
- Information entered on the wrong lines, or incorrect or missing schedules
- Incorrect tax tables used for figuring tax income tax
- Incorrect calculations for schedules
- Missing signature or date
- Missing or incorrect Identity Protection PIN
- Wrong banking or routing number used for refunds issued through direct deposit
You can avoid many of these errors by filing with TaxSlayer. We guarantee the accuracy of all calculations based on the information you provide, so you can file with confidence.
