Where’s my refund? These 2 changes at the IRS could slow down your check this tax season

Core Insights - The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is facing significant challenges this tax season, including short staffing and the transition from paper checks to digital refunds [1] Group 1: Staffing Issues - The IRS has experienced a 27% reduction in its workforce over the past year, following a period of increased staffing due to funding from the Inflation Reduction Act [5] - Leadership turnover and the implementation of complex tax law changes are compounding the staffing challenges faced by the IRS [6] Group 2: Transition to Digital Refunds - The report highlights that while most refunds were issued electronically last year, taxpayers without direct deposit information may face delays of up to six weeks for their refunds [2] - Vulnerable taxpayers, including those without bank accounts or who are elderly or disabled, may be disproportionately affected by the IRS's move away from paper checks [3] - Average refunds last year were $3,167, which is a significant amount for many households [3] - Only 6% of taxpayers filed their returns on paper, and just 7% received their refunds via paper check [4]