FAQ's regarding the Where's My Refund? system

Minnesota Department of Revenue sent this bulletin at 03/17/2016 08:48 AM CDT

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The Minnesota Department of Revenue is sharing with you the answers to some frequently asked questions regarding the new Where's My Refund? system and the status of taxpayers' refunds. This information may be helpful for you when talking with your clients and they ask you similar questions. 

 

Why doesn't the Minnesota Department of Revenue give a timeframe on the Where's My Refund? system? 

Because every return we receive is different, processing time will vary and estimated timeframes that we were giving were subject to change. Using the Where's My Refund? system, taxpayers can follow their return through our process with a new status bar. When we are finished processing the return, your clients will see the date their refund was issued.    

 

Why is it taking so long?  Did I do something wrong? 

With the increase in scams and stolen personal information, the department is taking the time necessary to make sure the right refund goes to the right taxpayer. Each tax return is different and the department reviews every return to verify the information on the return. In this environment of identity theft and fraud, no return can be considered simple. 

 

If there is something wrong with your client's return or the department needs additional information, we will contact the taxpayer. They can check the status of their refund on our new Where’s My Refund? system that will provide the most up-to-date information available on the return.

 

Does the new Where’s My Refund? system work for paper filed returns?

Yes. Taxpayers can use this system regardless of how they file.

 

Why does the new Where's My Refund? system ask for my client's exact refund amount?

This is unique information that is very specific to your client that is not easily obtained through other places. It helps us protect private information and ensures that only the correct individual can see when their refund is issued. Your client will also need their Social Security number and date of birth when using the Where's My Refund? system.

 

Is there a web page or telephone number that gives information on refunds? Something that will explain the process?

Yes, the Department of Revenue has helpful information on our website that explains the process and the stages a return goes through before a refund is issued. 

 

If your client does not have access to the internet, they can also use our automated telephone line to get the status of their refund.  If the client is located in the Twin Cities, call 651-296-4444, if they are located in Greater Minnesota, call 1-800-657-3676 (toll-free). 

 

What happens with my client's amended returns?

Amended returns are processed in the order the Department receives them. All amended returns are reviewed and this does take longer to process than an original return.

 

What telephone number should my client use when they need to talk directly to a Minnesota Revenue representative?

Taxpayers should call the income tax assistance line at 651-296-3781 or 1-800-652-9094 (toll-free). Please note that phone representatives do not have any additional information regarding the status of a taxpayer's refund than what is provided through the Where's My Refund? system.

 

Why might my client's refund be taking longer to process this year than last (or a prior) year?

With the increase in scams and stolen personal information, the department is taking the time necessary to make sure the right refund goes to the right taxpayer. Each return is different and the department reviews every return to verify the information on the return. In this environment of identity theft and fraud, no return can be considered simple. The length of time to process a return can differ from year to year.

 

What does identity theft have to do with tax refunds?

Identity theft occurs when a person's personal information, (i.e. name, Social Security number, address, etc.) is taken and used without permission to commit crimes or fraud. A criminal who has access to a taxpayer's personal information may use it to file a return in their name in an attempt to steal their refund.

 

The Minnesota Department of Revenue and the IRS have recently warned of an increase in scams including sending emails, text messages, and calling over-the-phone to phish for information, tricking taxpayers into giving criminals personal information needed to commit identity fraud such as filing a tax return in your client's name.

 

What can I do to protect myself against identity theft or advise my clients to protect their identity?

How to protect yourself from identity theft:

What to do if you think your identity has been stolen:

If you are victim of identity theft, you may be able to have an ID Theft flag on your MN driver's license:

If you think your identity has been stolen and someone has used it inappropriately for tax purposes:

  • Call the Minnesota Department of Revenue at 651-296-3781 or 1-800-652-9094 (toll-free), and
  • Call the IRS’s Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-908-4490.

Learn more about scams, steps to prevent identity theft, and the department’s fraud prevention efforts on our website.