What Does Tax Topic 152 Mean? If you’re expecting a tax refund from the IRS, you probably want to know when you’ll receive it. That’s why you may use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on the IRS website to track your refund status. But what if you see a message that says “Refer to Tax Topic 152”? Does Tax Topic 152 mean something is wrong with your return? Should you be worried?
The answer is no. Tax Topic 152 is a generic reference code that some taxpayers may see when accessing the IRS refund status tool. Unlike other codes that a taxpayer might encounter, Tax Topic 152 doesn’t require any additional steps from the taxpayer. It simply means your return is being processed and has yet to be approved or rejected.
In this article on what does tax topic 152 means, we’ll explain what Tax Topic 152 means, why your return may take longer to process, and what you can do to speed up your refund. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions about Tax Topic 152 and provide some tips on how to avoid common errors that may delay your refund.
Table of Contents
What is Tax Topic 152:
What Does Tax Topic 152 Mean? According to the IRS, 9 out of 10 tax refunds are processed in their normal time frame of fewer than 21 days. But if you come across a reference to Tax Topic 152, your return may require further review and could take longer than the typical 21 days.
Keep in mind that Tax Topic 152 doesn’t mean you made a mistake or did anything wrong when filing. It simply means your return is being processed and has yet to be approved or rejected.
You may see Tax Topic 152 if you’re making an Injured Spouse claim or you have attached an application for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). You may also see it if you’re expecting a refund from an amended return or a refund of tax withheld on Form 1042-S by filing a Form 1040-NR.
Tax Topic 152 is not a cause for concern, but rather a reminder to be patient and wait for your refund to be issued. You can check the status of your refund online, by phone, or by using the IRS2Go mobile app. You’ll need your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact amount of your refund.
Why Might My Tax Return Take Longer To Process?
There are several reasons why your tax return may take a little longer to process and lead to you being referred to Tax Topic 152. The following situations are among those reasons:
1. You filed a paper return
Paper returns take longer to process than e-filed returns, especially during peak filing season or due to COVID-19-related delays. The IRS advises taxpayers to file electronically and choose direct deposit for faster refunds.
2. You filed an amended return
Amended returns can take up to 16 weeks to process, depending on the complexity of the changes and the volume of returns. You can track the status of your amended return using the “Where’s My Amended Return?” tool on the IRS website.
3. You filed an injured spouse claim
If you filed Form 8379, Injured Spouse Allocation, to claim your share of a joint refund that was offset by your spouse’s debts, your refund may take up to 14 weeks to process. You can check the status of your injured spouse’s claim by calling the IRS at 800-829-1040.
4. You applied for an ITIN
If you don’t have a Social Security number and need an ITIN to file your tax return, you must attach Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, to your return. This may delay your refund by up to 9 weeks. You can check the status of your ITIN application by calling the IRS at 800-829-1040.
5. You requested a refund of tax withheld on Form 1042-S
If you’re a nonresident alien who received income from U.S. sources and had tax withheld on Form 1042-S, Foreign Person’s U.S. Source Income Subject to Withholding, you must file Form 1040-NR, U.S. Nonresident Alien Income Tax Return, to claim a refund. This may take up to 6 months to process. You can check the status of your refund by calling the IRS at 800-829-1040.
How Can I Ensure There Aren’t Any Delays?
While you can’t control how long the IRS takes to process your return, you can take some steps to speed up your refund. Here are some tips to follow:
How To Speed Up Your Tax Refund
File electronically
E-filing is faster, more secure, and more accurate than filing a paper return. You can use a tax software program, such as TurboTax, to prepare and file your return online. TurboTax will also check your return for errors and help you maximize your refund.
1. Choose direct deposit
Direct deposit is the fastest way to receive your refund. You can have your refund deposited into your checking or savings account or into an IRA, a TreasuryDirect account, or a prepaid debit card. You can also split your refund among up to three accounts. Just make sure you provide the correct routing and account numbers on your return.
2. File early
The earlier you file, the sooner you’ll get your refund. Filing early also reduces the risk of identity theft, as you’ll claim your refund before a fraudster can file a fake return using your information. The IRS usually begins accepting returns in late January, but you can start preparing your return as soon as you have your tax documents.
3. Avoid errors
Errors on your return can cause delays in processing and issuing your refund. Some common errors include misspelling your name, entering the wrong Social Security number, claiming the wrong filing status, miscalculating your income or deductions, and omitting information. You can avoid errors by using a tax software program, such as TurboTax, that will guide you through the filing process and alert you of any mistakes.
4. Respond to IRS notices
If the IRS contacts you about your return, don’t ignore it. The IRS may need more information or documentation from you to verify your return. Respond to any IRS notices as soon as possible to avoid further delays in your refund.
All You Need To Know: Getting Your Tax Refund
Refund Timing
Most people receive their tax refunds within 21 days, but sometimes it may take longer if your return needs extra review. Here are some common reasons for delays:
- If you filed a paper return, it might take longer to process.
- If you’re expecting a refund from an amended return, check “Where’s my amended return?” for processing times.
- If you filed an injured spouse claim, find more info on injured spouse relief.
- For refund claims with an ITIN application, check Topic No. 857 for details.
- If you requested a refund of tax withheld on Form 1042-S, it may take up to 6 months.
- Early Earned Income Tax Credit and Additional Child Tax Credit refunds are expected by February 27 for direct deposit. Check “Where’s my refund?” for your personalized date.
Refund Type
To avoid delays, e-file and choose direct deposit for the fastest refund. You have a few options for receiving your federal tax refund:
- Direct Deposit: Fastest way to your checking, savings, or IRA account. Be aware of the three-refund limit per year into a single account to combat fraud.
- TreasuryDirect®: Deposit into a TreasuryDirect® online account to buy savings bonds.
- IRA Accounts: Directly deposit into a traditional, Roth, or SEP-IRA (not a SIMPLE IRA). Ensure you have an existing IRA account before filing your return.
- Form 8888: Purchase U.S. Series I Savings Bonds up to $5,000.
- Paper Check: Receive a paper check by mail to the address on your return.
Remember, you can check your refund status using “Where’s my refund?” and only contact the IRS if directed to do so. E-filing and choosing direct deposit can help you get your refund faster!
Managing Your Refund
If you opt for a direct deposit refund, you can split it into three different accounts. Use Form 8888, Allocation of Refund, to specify the amounts for a checking, savings, and retirement account. This form also allows you to purchase up to $5,000 in series I savings bonds. However, if you file Form 8379, Injured Spouse Allocation, you can’t split your refund into multiple accounts or buy paper series I savings bonds.
Keep in mind the following:
- Your refund can only be directly deposited into accounts in your name, your spouse’s name, or both for joint accounts.
- Avoid having your refund deposited into your tax preparer’s account.
- To be eligible for direct deposit, your total refund must be $1 or more.
For the most current refund information, use “Where’s my refund?” online or on the IRS2Go mobile app. It’s updated daily, so there’s no need to check more frequently.
Checking your refund status:
- Within 24 hours after e-filing for tax year 2023.
- 3 or 4 days after e-filing for tax year 2021 or 2022.
- 4 weeks after filing a paper return.
Have your tax return ready, including your taxpayer identification number, filing status, and the exact whole dollar amount of your refund. This information will help you track your refund status efficiently.
FAQs about What Does Tax Topic 152 Mean
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers to what does tax topic 152 means:
How long will it take to get my refund after seeing Tax Topic 152?
A: It depends on your situation and how you filed your return. Generally, you can expect to receive your refund within 21 days of e-filing or within six weeks of mailing your paper return. However, some returns may take longer to process due to various factors, such as errors, audits, or identity verification. You can check the status of your refund online, by phone, or by using the IRS2Go mobile app.
What is the difference between Tax Topic 152 and Tax Topic 203?
A: Tax Topic 152 is a generic code that means your return is being processed and your refund is on its way. Tax Topic 203 is a specific code that means your refund may be reduced or offset by certain debts, such as unpaid child support, student loans, or state taxes. If you see Tax Topic 203, you should receive a notice from the IRS or the Bureau of the Fiscal Service explaining the reason and amount of the offset.
What is the difference between Tax Topic 152 and Tax Topic 151?
Tax Topic 152 is a generic code that means your return is being processed and your refund is on its way. Tax Topic 151 is a specific code that means your return has been selected for an audit and you may owe additional tax. If you see Tax Topic 151, you should receive a notice from the IRS explaining the reason for the audit and your rights and responsibilities.
What is the difference between Tax Topic 152 and Tax Topic 303?
Tax Topic 152 is a generic code that means your return is being processed and your refund is on its way. Tax Topic 303 is a specific code that means there are errors or missing information on your return that may delay your refund. If you see Tax Topic 303, you should review your return and correct any errors or provide any missing information. You may also receive a notice from the IRS requesting additional information or documentation.
Conclusion: What Does Tax Topic 152 Mean
What Does Tax Topic 152 Mean? Tax Topic 152 is a common message that some taxpayers may see when checking their refund status on the IRS website. It’s not a cause for alarm, but rather a sign that your return is being processed and your refund is on its way. However, some returns may take longer to process due to various reasons, such as errors, audits, or identity verification.
You can speed up your refund by filing electronically, choosing direct deposit, filing early, avoiding errors, and responding to IRS notices. You can also check the status of your refund online, by phone, or by using the IRS2Go mobile app. If you have any questions or concerns about your refund, you can contact the IRS or consult a tax professional.