The IRS Customer FAQ

When you send a form like 4868 via certified mail, it can sometimes take a while for the IRS to process it, especially during peak times. Don't worry if it hasn't been acknowledged yet. As long as you have proof you sent it before the deadline (like a postmarked receipt), you have complied with requirements for an extension. While waiting for confirmation, ensure you are prepared to file your tax return by the extension deadline to avoid penalties.

Even though the IRS claims not to have received your payment, it's crucial to verify your bank statement first. If the amount has indeed been debited from your account, it could be a processing error from the IRS end or the payment could still be in transit. Please wait for a few days; payments sometimes take a while to be credited to the IRS. If after a reasonable time period the IRS still doesn't acknowledge receipt of your payment, you will need to provide proof like a bank statement or a receipt showing that payment was made. Remember, it's essential to keep such documents for cases like these.

To report tax fraud to the IRS, you should use Form 3949-A, Information Referral. You have to provide personal information about the person you're reporting, such as their name, address, social security number, and a description of the alleged fraudulent activity. Additionally, you'll need to provide your personal information, unless you choose to remain anonymous. After filling it out, mail the form to the IRS in Fresno, CA. It's important to provide as much detail as possible to help the investigators. Please note that the IRS doesn't provide updates on the progress or results of the investigation due to federal privacy laws.

The IRS began accepting 2020 tax returns on February 12, 2021. While the deadline to file 2020 tax returns is typically April 15, in 2021 it was extended to May 17 due to the effects of the pandemic. The speed at which you receive your return depends on how you filed and how you chose to receive your refund. If you e-filed with direct deposit, the IRS states it's common to receive your refund within 21 days. Mail-in paper returns typically take longer. Please note it's important to file as soon as you're prepared to help prevent tax identity theft.

To view your tax transcript from the previous year, you will need to visit the IRS's online portal. First, go to the IRS website and click on "Get Your Tax Record". Then, select "Get Transcript Online". You'll need to create an account if you haven't already. Once you log in, you can view, download, or print your tax transcripts. Please note that for security reasons, the service is only available to taxpayers who can verify their identities. If you're unable to meet the identity verification requirements, you can still request a transcript to be mailed to your address. Just select the "Get Transcript by Mail" option.