When to expect Ohio, federal tax refunds

You could avoid delays by following these tips

Tax season is officially upon us. Well, it actually started in January, but we’re beginning to enter what the Internal Revenue Service considers to be the peak filing period for taxes.

If you’ve already filed, congratulations. You’re ahead of the curve.

But for those of you who haven’t, here’s what you to know about when to expect your return and what to do to avoid delays.

When will I get my tax refund?

That depends on how you file. In Ohio, a tax return that is filed online and smoothly processed can result in a refund within two to three weeks.

Filing a paper return takes longer for Ohio’s tax department to process; anywhere from eight to ten weeks.

The overwhelming majority of the 5.8 million returns that are filed in the Buckeye State each year are filed electronically. As of Feb. 28, Ohio’s tax department had received nearly 1.9 million returns, 99% of which had been filed online, according to the Ohio Department of Taxation.

With federal returns, the typical refund is issued within 21 days, according to the IRS.

Whichever way you choose to file, here are some tips to ensure your tax refund isn’t delayed, as outlined by the Ohio Department of Taxation. The deadline to file is April 18.

What you can do to avoid delays

● Be prepared: make sure you have all your tax reporting documents before filling out and filing your return. An incomplete return may cause processing delays.

● Double-check for accuracy: your name – address – social security number (and math).

● Round all figures to the nearest dollar: 51 cents or more, round up; 50 cents or less, round down.

● Choose direct deposit if you’re getting a refund (not available if filing a paper return). Use correct bank routing and account numbers.

● Be aware! If you use a tax preparer, choose carefully. You — not the tax preparer — are responsible for the information on your return.

Where’s my refund?

Ohio offers an online tool to check the status of a tax refund.

The IRS offers a “Where’s My Refund?” tool on their website, at irs.gov/refunds. The tool is updated daily.