According to National Taxpayers Union, approximately 60% of households in US file tax returns with approximately 39.4% paying no taxes due to low income. While filing income taxes electronically, many taxpayers often expect refunds from IRS. Therefore, they end up using IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool to get an update on their refunds. But they often get the message “Tax Topic 152”. This concers many taxpayers about their refund. So, many taxpayers wonder what is Tax Topic 152? And, does it mean a potential delay for getting your refund?
The good news is that the Tax Topic 152 is usually not a bad sign. In most cases, it usually means the IRS is still processing your tax returns and is providing general information about your refund status. In this article, you will learn what is Tax Topic 152, why you’re seeing it, whether you should worry and what to do next all explained in easy-to-follow steps.
What Is Tax Topic 152?
Tax Topic 152 is a message from IRS providing general refund information about your tax returns. It usually means your tax return is being processed and there is no immediate action required from you although, your refund may take some time to be approved.
This is a common message that appears when checking your refund status using the IRS “Where’s My Refund tool?“. It doesn’t indicate an audit, rejection or error in your tax returns. Instead, it simply means general IRS guidance about how tax returns are processed and the timeline involved in the process.
In most cases, seeing Tax Topic 152 means:
- Your return has been received by the IRS
- Your refund is still under review or processing
- No immediate action is required from you
However, the exact timing of your refund can vary depending on factors like filing method, tax credits claimed, or additional verification requirements. After understanding what is tax topic 152, let’s see if you should be concerned or not.
Is Seeing Tax Topic 152 A Bad Sign?
No, seeing Tax Topic 152 is not a bad sign. It does not indicate a problem with your tax return, nor does it mean you are being audited or rejected. However, what really matters is how long your refund takes after you see this message.
The IRS states that most refunds are issued within 21 days of accepting your return. So:
- If you’re still within 21 days → This is completely normal
- If it’s been more than 21 days → Your refund may be delayed
- If delays continue → You may need to contact the IRS for clarification
You should consider contacting the IRS if:
- It has been over 21 days since e-filing
- Your refund status has not updated for a long time
- The IRS specifically asks you to take action
In short, Tax Topic 152 itself is not negative, but if your refund takes longer than the normal 21-day window, it’s a good idea to monitor your status more closely or reach out to the IRS if needed. In case your returns contain errors or mistakes, Tax Topic 303 is another reference code provided by IRS explaining common issues that could slow down your processing.
Meanwhile, if your refunds are being delayed and you want to earn extra money, then you could look for ways to make money without a job to supplement your income while your returns are being processed. After understanding if Tax Topic 152 is a matter of concern, let’s explore what to do after seeing this message.
What To Do If You See Tax Topic 152? Processing Time For Tax Refund
Usually, when you see Tax Topic 152, there is no immediate action required from you. In most cases, your tax refunds just may take longer to process, so taxpayers are required to be patient. However, here are some steps you can take to avoid unnecessary delays.
1. Wait for the standard processing time
As explained above, patience is the key. The standard processing time IRS takes for tax refunds is 21 days especially if you selected direct deposit. If you’re still within this timeframe, it is recommended to wait a little longer.
2. Check your refund status regularly
Use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool to look for updates on your tax refund. Your status may change as your return moves through different processing stages.
3. Understand common delay factors
Your returns could take longer to process if they include:
- The Earned Income Tax Credits (EITC).
- The Child Tax Credits (CTC).
- An injured spouse claim.
- Filing with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security Number (SSN).
- An amended return.
These situations often require additional reviews by IRS which can prolong processing time.
4. Review your tax return details
Check for any errors in the information entered on IRS’ forms such as your SSN, filing status, and bank details. Make sure you filed your tax returns with accurate details.
5. Watch for IRS notifications
IRS often notifies you for additional information or details required. So, make sure to follow up timely to avoid further delays.
6. Contact the IRS if necessary
If your federal tax refund has taken more than 21 days and still the website shows Tax Topic 152 status, then you should consider reaching out to IRS for clarification.
After understanding what to to when you see the message, let’s explore why does Tax Topic 152 suddenly disappear.
Why Did Tax Topic 152 Disappear?
If you previously saw Tax Topic 152 message and it suddenly disappeared from IRS website, then it might feel unsettling at first. However, in most cases, it is normal. There are a few reasons why the message disappears from the website.
1. Your refund has been approved
One of the most common reasons for no longer seeing the message is that your refund has moved to the next stage. If approved, the IRS may issue your payment soon especially if you selected direct deposit.
2. Your refund status has been updated
As your refund progresses through next stages, the system may replace the message with a more specific update about your refund.
3. Additional reviews
IRS may be additionally reviewing your refunds if you no longer see the message. This can happen if you claimed certain credits like EITC, CTC or filed with an ITIN.
4. Temporary system glitch
Sometimes, the website can glitch causing the message to disappear. Refresh your page to see if the message reappears or check again later. The message might reappear later if a system glitch caused it to disappear temporarily.
After understanding why the message could disappear, let’s explore the difference between Tax Topic 152 and IRS Code 846.
Tax Topic 152 Vs IRS Code 846
Taxpayers often confuse both messages, but both mean different stages of your tax refund processing. Tax Topic 152 message means that the IRS is still processing your tax refunds. Whereas, IRS Code 846 shows that your returns have been approved and issued.
In simpler words, seeing 152 message means that you are required to wait. On the other hand, IRS Code 846 means that your money is on the way. Basically, this message appears right after Tax Topic 152 when your refund has been approved and issued by IRS within the 21 days timeline.
Conclusion
Tax Topic 152 often worries taxpayers when they file their returns. They confuse it for an error or glitch of some kind. However, it is a part of IRS’ standard messaging system to let you know that your return is still being processed and it might take a little longer than expected to be approved.
In these cases, taxpayers are required to wait for at least 21 days. If your return is still within this period, then there is nothing to worry about. However, if it has been longer than 21 days, then expect some kind of delays. Usually, the message only means your return is still under processing and will be approved within the 21-day window. So, be patient.
Monitor your refund status constantly using IRS “Where’s My Refund?” Tool to see if the status has moved to the next stage. Eventually, you will see IRS Code 846 message meaning that the refund has been approved and will be deposited to you promptly. Do you have any questions? Let us know in the comments.
FAQs
Is Tax Topic 152 something to worry about?
No. Tax Topic 152 is a normal message indicating your return is being processed. It does not mean your refund is rejected or audited.
How long after Code 152 will I get my refund?
Most refunds are issued within 21 days of filing. If it takes longer, delays may be due to credits, verification, or errors.
Why is my refund taking so long?
Delays can occur if your return includes the earned income tax credit, child tax credit, an injured spouse claim, an ITIN filing, or an amended return.
What does it mean when Tax Topic 152 disappears?
It usually means your return has moved to the next processing stage. Your refund may be approved or under additional review.
Where can I check my refund status?
Use the official IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool to track your refund in real time.