Refund delays usually aren’t caused by “bad luck” — they’re caused by missing or mismatched paperwork. Before you file your 2025 taxes in 2026, confirm you have every W-2 and 1099, your last pay stub (especially if overtime is involved), Form 1095-A if you used Marketplace coverage, and any IRS IP PIN letters. The IRS now cross-checks income and credits quickly, so filing before your return is complete can trigger refund holds, rejection, or follow-up letters.
Many taxpayers file early expecting a fast refund, only to face unexpected delays weeks later. The most common cause is missing or mismatched tax documents, which trigger IRS review systems. Learn which forms matter most and how filing complete — not rushed — can help protect your refund.
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