Tax season can be a stressful time for many individuals and businesses, especially when it comes to waiting for that long-anticipated tax refund. However, if you're a resident of the State of Delaware, you might have noticed that the refund process has been slower than usual this year.

 

 

One of the primary reasons for the delayed state tax refunds in Delaware is the overwhelming surge in tax filings. As the tax laws and regulations change, more individuals and businesses are seeking professional assistance, which has led to an increase in the number of tax returns being filed. The Delaware Division of Revenue has been dealing with a larger volume of returns, causing a backlog that has slowed down the refund process.

 

Security Measures.

 

Delaware, like many other states, has implemented enhanced security measures to combat identity theft and fraudulent tax returns. These measures involve a more stringent verification process to ensure that refunds are issued to legitimate taxpayers. While these security measures are necessary, they can also contribute to the delay in processing refunds. The Division of Revenue must thoroughly review each return, which takes time and resources.

 

 

Another factor that has contributed to the delay in Delaware state tax refunds is the implementation of new tax software and technology upgrades. The Division of Revenue has been working to modernize its systems to improve efficiency and accuracy in processing tax returns. However, during this transition period, some unforeseen technical issues and glitches may have further slowed down the refund process.

 

 

The Division of Revenue in Delaware, like many other government agencies, has faced staffing challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. The ongoing public health crisis has disrupted normal operations, leading to reduced staff levels and remote work arrangements. The combination of increased filings and limited resources has placed additional strain on the agency, causing delays in processing tax returns and issuing refunds.

 

 

It's important to note that the Delaware Division of Revenue is aware of the delay in issuing tax refunds and has been actively communicating with taxpayers about the situation. They have been providing regular updates on their website, through press releases, and via social media platforms to keep taxpayers informed. Despite the delays, the Division of Revenue is working diligently to process refunds as quickly as possible while maintaining the necessary security measures.

 

If you believe your refund has been significantly delayed or there is an issue with your return, it's advisable to contact the Division of Revenue directly. Their customer service representatives can provide you with personalized assistance and address any concerns you may have.  The “Where’s my Refund” functionality seems to be malfunctioning currently, increasing frustration for filers trying to find the status of their return.  It states to allow 10-12 weeks for processing but has also given some tax filers responses such as “Your refund request was not found.”

 

While waiting for a tax refund is never pleasant, it's essential to understand the factors that contribute to delays. By staying informed and taking advantage of the Division of Revenue's resources, taxpayers can navigate this delay with patience and a better understanding of the situation.