Waiting for a tax refund can be nerve-wracking, especially when your status on the ATO portal has been stuck on “In Progress” for longer than expected. While most online returns are finalized within two weeks, it is not uncommon for some to take up to 30 days—or longer if manual checks are required.

If you are seeing the “In Progress” status, here is what it means and how you should handle the wait.

Understanding the “In Progress” Status

Not all “In Progress” statuses are the same. If you check your status via ATO online services (through myGov), you will often see a specific sub-status that explains what is happening behind the scenes:

• Processing: The ATO has received your return and is currently working through it. If you see a down arrow next to this status, clicking it may reveal an estimated assessment issue date.
• Balancing Account: The ATO is balancing your result against other accounts you may have with them or other government agencies. This can involve transferring funds to cover outstanding tax debts or other liabilities.
• Information Pending: The ATO needs more information to finish your return. They will contact you or your tax agent directly if they need specific documentation.
• Under Review: This is a manual process where an ATO officer is double-checking your information. This is common if there are discrepancies between the data you provided and the information they have on file from employers, banks, or health insurers.

Why Is My Tax Return Delayed?

If your return has been “In Progress” for more than 30 days, it is likely due to one of the following common factors:

• Manual Checks: The ATO may be manually verifying your data against third-party sources like Centrelink, Child Support, or private health insurers.
• Duplicate Lodgments: You may have accidentally attempted to lodge a second return or lodged an amendment while your original return was still being processed.
• Data Mismatches: Information provided in your return (such as bank details, TFN, or address) does not align with the records the ATO holds.
• Outstanding Debts: The ATO may be holding your refund to offset an existing tax debt or a re-raised non-pursued debt.
• Multi-Year Lodgments: Lodging tax returns for several years at the same time often triggers a manual review, which naturally takes longer than a single-year lodgment.

What You Should Do (And What You Should Not)

It is tempting to try and “speed things up” by calling the ATO, but there are specific steps you should take to avoid causing further delays.

• DO NOT lodge again: Do not attempt to re-lodge your tax return. This will almost certainly trigger a duplicate lodgment error and push your return to the back of the processing queue.
• DO check your myGov inbox: The ATO will prioritize sending official correspondence through your myGov inbox. If they need information, it will be waiting there.
• DO update your details: Ensure your bank account details are correct and active. If your refund is sent to a closed or incorrect account, it will be returned to the ATO, which adds weeks to the process.
• DO wait for the 30-day mark: If you lodged online, wait 30 calendar days before getting concerned. ATO online services are generally efficient, and the system often updates as soon as the manual review is complete.
• DO contact your Tax Agent: If you used a registered tax agent, they have a direct line of communication with the ATO and can often see internal progress notes that you cannot see in your personal myGov portal.

When to Contact the ATO

If you have passed the 30-day window or have received a specific request for information, you can contact the ATO:

1. Self-Help Service: Use the automated phone line at 13 28 65 for status updates.
2. Speak to an Officer: If the status has been “Under Review” or “Information Pending” for an extended period, you can call for an update. Be aware that the ATO cannot “speed up” a manual review, but they can confirm if they are still waiting on data or if they need you to take action.

Note: If you are experiencing serious financial hardship, you may be eligible to request priority processing. Speak to your tax agent or contact the ATO directly to discuss your circumstances.