Waiting for your Maryland tax refund can be stressful, especially if there’s an unexpected delay. Several factors can cause Maryland tax refunds to take longer than expected. Understanding the common reasons behind these delays can help you resolve any issues and get your refund faster.
One of the most frequent causes of delays in Maryland tax refunds is errors on your return. Mistakes, such as incorrect math, missing signatures, or incomplete information, can lead to a delay in processing. When your return is submitted, the Maryland Comptroller’s office reviews it for accuracy. If there are any discrepancies or missing details, your return will be flagged for further review, which can extend the time it takes to process your refund.
To avoid this, double-check your return before submission. If you’re e-filing, the software will usually catch common errors, but it’s still a good idea to verify everything. For paper returns, make sure all required fields are completed correctly to reduce the risk of delays.
Incorrect or outdated direct deposit information is another common reason for delayed refunds. If the bank account number or routing number you provided on your return is wrong, your refund cannot be deposited electronically. In such cases, the Maryland Comptroller’s office will send you a paper check instead, which typically takes longer to arrive.
To avoid this issue, verify your bank account details before filing your return. If you’ve recently changed accounts or moved, make sure the information you provide is up to date. Ensuring that your direct deposit information is accurate can help speed up the refund process.
Maryland’s tax department, like many others, conducts additional reviews on returns to prevent fraud. If your return contains unusual claims, discrepancies, or patterns that seem suspicious, it may be flagged for further verification. This process can add significant time to your refund processing.
Fraud prevention reviews are more likely to affect returns that involve large deductions or credits. While this extra review helps protect both the state and taxpayers, it can result in a delayed refund.
To avoid delays, make sure your return is accurate, and provide the correct direct deposit information. E-filing is generally faster and reduces the risk of errors, and filing early can help you avoid delays during peak tax season.
Delays in Maryland tax refunds are often caused by errors on your return, incorrect direct deposit details, or additional fraud prevention checks. By ensuring your return is accurate and complete, you can help speed up the process and receive your refund as quickly as possible.
