When the IRS says I should have my refund by a certain date, what does that mean? Why are they not specific?

Question

The wonderful IRS says I should have my refund by Feb. 12? Why are they so vague?  I filed electronically and am getting direct deposit so it is not as though the check will float around in the mail system!

Answer 1

That is their estimate of the transmission date to your bank. There are a number of things that could affect the actual date, and they don't want to be answering the phone from people saying, "You said Feb 10 at 10:00am, and it's not here."

Answer 2

they are the IRS be glad u get it at all.
the computer has control if it feels like giving u ur money it will.
come on , the old way u waited waited waited then got a check. be happy they are putting it IN your account not OUT of your account.

Answer 3

How is stating Feb. 12th being vague?  In my opinion, stating a certain date is as specific as you can get.  Make sure you keep logging into your account and checking your status.. the date specified is the date your direct deposit will be processed.  Allow 2 additional business days to see the actual funds in your bank, depending on your bank.  Best Wishes!

Answer 4

For pete's sake, what did people do before e-filing?

Presumably there is some human interaction at some point in the process. Depending on how many people file between now and when you get your refund it may take them a little more or a little less time to get to your return.