Good Question: Where’s my tax refund?

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — Unless you filed for an extension to file your tax returns, it’s been months since you sent everything off. Many people already got their refunds but not everyone.

Megan reached out to me saying:

"Myself along with some of my friends and family have yet to receive our NYS tax refund even though we filed in February online. When we try to track it online we always get the same message that it’s been received but under review. Any idea what the holdup is or could you find out for us?"

I took her Good Question to the New York State Tax and Finance Department. The people there told me if you’re still waiting, chances are your documents got flagged and may need a correction to square everything away.

This could be something pretty simple such as a clerical error, totals that don’t quite match up by mistake, etc. The tax department lays out that process saying:

"Once we receive your return and begin to process it, our automated processing system scans it for any errors or signs of fraud. Depending on the result of that scan, we may need to manually review it. This status may update to processing again, or you may receive a request for additional information."

State officials would’ve reached out through a letter to clarify anything. If you tossed it by mistake or for some reason it didn’t get to you, you have some options. You can 518-457-5149. I’m told the wait times aren’t that long.

You can also skip the call and create an online services account. The state tax website says "You can make a payment, respond to a letter from the department, and more—anytime, anywhere."

If you have a question you want Brennan to answer, e-mail him at GoodQuestion@WHEC.com.