First Time Home Buyer Tax Rebate: How Long Does It Take To Receive Check
Buying a home for the first time can be an overwhelming experience. The dream of owning a home is one that almost every American strives for and now more than ever are first time home buyers trying to get into their first house. The reason is that Obama administration had created one of the best first time home buyer programs ever. The stimulus package that Obama signed into laws earlier this year created a rebate program for first time home buyers that gives up to $8,000 to qualified home buyers that close before November 30, 2009.
Although many first time home buyers have already taken advantage of this program, there are still some that have questions about it and people want to know more about the first time home buyer tax rebate, and how long does it take to receive a check. This question was sent to us from one of the readers and we felt that with some much talk going on right now about the first time home buyer tax rebate that we could share some insights on the process and how long it would take to receive a check from the government.
First Time Home Buyer Tax Rebate: How long does it take to receive a check?
- First, the home has to close escrow. The only way to get the first time home buyer rebate check is to have bought a house, and close on it before November 31, 2009. A person cannot receive the tax rebate check, or request for a check without first closing on the house. This means that even if the house is in escrow, the money cannot be processed until the house has actually turned hands and the person who is going to request for the funds is the primary owner of the house and the house is the primary residence for the individual.
- Second, a person that does close escrow and is qualified to receive the tax rebate check, based on the income and logistic guidelines provided by the government, has two choices on how they can receive the money. They could either claim the tax rebate on their 2009 return, which would mean waiting to the new year and filing the paperwork with the 2009 tax information, or they can amend their 2008 return to include this rebate and they could get the money sooner. I think the second option is the that many people would like, as they can get the money sooner. This means that if a person closes on a house today, they can have their 2008 taxes amended quickly with all information filled in properly, and could have a check as soon as 4 weeks. The quickest we’ve seen processed took about 4 weeks, and we also seem some take as long as 12 weeks. There is not exact date or time for them to process the tax rebate check and it would depend on the quantity of apps that they are going through at any given time, the thoroughness of the paperwork when it is turned it, and location of the buyer that the mail would be processed too. All of these things would factor into when the check would arrive, but if a person was on top of it and did all things that they are suppose to do, they would get their first time home buyer tax rebate check within about a month, but could take up to 3 months if the paperwork and process is stalled because of incomplete paperwork or delays in sending it in.
The money will come. Although we’ve heard some frustrations from people that are waiting for their tax rebate checks, other people that were qualified and did fill out the paperwork properly have received their checks so it’s just a matter of time and it will get there. The best case scenarios would take about 4 weeks, but in the worst of cases it could take as long as 12 weeks to get it. Don’t get discouraged if you are waiting for the tax rebate, or not sure if you should fill it out for this year or next. The first time home buyer tax rebate is a good program and one that will help many Americans realize their dream of owning a home.
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I closed on my house on May 13th and filed my amended 2009 return on a couple days later. I called the IRS today and they indicated it was accepted and a check would be mailed out on July 9th as well for 8,033.01. I included my HUD statement as required.
I overnighted my amended tax return May 3, 2010. I closed on March 25, 2010. It took over a week for my real estate attorney to provide my HUD. It then took my cpa several weeks to send me my amended tax documents. I reached out to tax advocate at the end of May as the IRS couldn’t confirm receipt of my rebate and I was receiving conflicting information. My return is showing received in their computers as of 5 weeks ago.
I used all my savings to put 20% down. I need this money as I have no furniture and had to borrow money to buy a working refridgerator. I can’t keep not eating to pay my bills.
I made a huge life decision based on the this tax rebate. I will try Bill’s advice and also contact my congressman as well.
Many are fighting and have fought for up to TWO years to get their legal, legitimate 2008 and 2009 first home buyers rebates. The FED doesn’t have the money, except when it comes to hiring more overpaid, lazy, porno-watching government IRS desk so-called processors.
I filed my amended return on 5-19-2010
I recieved my check today 7-12-10
I sent my return to the fresno processing center.
Update, I got my check on july 6th!!
Well, I received my rebate check today - almost 8 weeks to the day when I sent my ammended return off.
I closed on 5/27, mailed my amended tax form with HUD and purchase agreement on 6/3, check with interest will be mailed 7/16. There is hope!
I got my HUD at closing, and Turbo Tax did my amended return at no charge. The whole process was quite simple.
Update. I got my check on July 6th!
Follow-up from above post by me (Bill)……………….Check was in my mail on 7/13/2010. Hope the rest of you get yours on time.
My husband and I closed on our home, April 26th. We filed an amended return on May 6th and mailed it via certified mail. The IRS received it on May 10th. I waited a few weeks and them on June 17th called the Des Moines, Iowa office directly (as this was the office I sent our information to in May). The gentleman said our return was accepted on May 10th, but he had no other information but to just wait 12-16 weeks from the date of them receiving it. I waited until today to call back. This time I called the number “Bill” gave on this forum @ 800-829-0922 and received a sweet lady who was so helpful! She said ours had been recieved on May 10th, closed last week and is set to be sent out in the next 3 weeks. She said over the weekend their computer systems update, so calling on Monday you will get the most up to date information. I’ll keep you posted on if this comes through in 3 weeks
One more thing–I asked why the online ‘Where’s My Rebate?” section of IRS.gov was not showing this information and she said the online tracker does not work for Amended returns. So, that might explain why some people aren’t able to find information on that part of the irs.gov website. Hope this all helps!
I’m still impatiently waiting.. filed 01/16/2010, not an amended return.
WOW I feel your pain Kate! Filed March 10, 2010 amended return STILL NOTHING. Called IRS twice @ 800-829-0582 ext. 462 told me they still haven’t received it yet both times. IRS told me not worry its probably piled on someones desk and they have not gotten to it yet.
I just want to let people know that I mailed my ammended 2010 tax return on June 2, 2010 and on July 19, 2010, I received my check with $36 extra for interest. I ammended my 2010 return because I had a refund owed to me besides the $8,000 and didn’t want to wait longer for that. SO I filed my regular 2010 return, and then ammended it a while later. I sent it certified mail with return receipt so I was able to track that the IRS DID receive my return and acknowledged receipt of it by signing for it. I just wanted to post that mine took roughly 6 weeks to receive, because when I was researching and reading all these horror stories of 16+ weeks, I was very concerned. Not EVERYONE has that experience! I also have a few friends who bought homes around here ( in Texas) and they too got their returns withing about 6 weeks. Not sure if location makes a difference. Thanks!
The advocate called this morning. He said the IRS is now asking for an extension until 8/02/10. Considering they gave me a date of 8/23/10 when I first spoke to the advocate I’m not sure just how that’s an extension, but whatever. LOL Advocate will be in Pittsburgh for training until 8/10/10, so if the refund doesn’t happen before then he will call me. He said then if it hasn’t happened my case gets bumped up to his supervisor who can require them to work on mine immediately. So we’ll see how this goes.
Natalie, I live in IL and I know several people who filed and got their refunds within a 6-8 week time frame. I’m not sure why this happens to some and others get theirs in a very timely manner. I do know that it’s very frustrating for those of us who are waiting…and waiting.
The IRS received my amended 2008 return on August 31, 2009. Finally, it looks like they are working on it. My latest letter received July 17, 2010 says they will mail it in 6-8 weeks. I sent everything they needed and didn’t make any mistakes.
Closed on house May 14, 2010, Went to tax office May 17th mailed it out same day, called last week stated it was going to be mailed today with interest on hold with IRS now to confirm. It took 8 weeks for mine im really sorry to hear of the nightmares most of you have had. Hope it gets settled soon and your checks are in your hands
Katie, i’m in IL as well and I close on my house on April 30, 2010. Paperwork was received May 10, 2010, I’m having a hard time getting my money as well. My property has a few issues which required code violation repairs, Now the city is threating to cut off my water if I dont get these things repaired. I called and requested an advocate. She seemed to be able to see everything an told me I was audited for a property from 2006 that I owned in another state. She seemed positive and requested documents and told me the case would be closed by September 20, 2010. So wish me luck. This is ashame they gave prisoners money but are hassling the hard working American about their money
I closed 05/27/10. Overnighted amended return 06/01/10 called to confirm receipt multiple times 06/24/10 they did not see anything in the system said to give the 8 weeks from receipt called again in between then and still was told the same thing called on 07/21/10 and was told my return had been processed check was being sent out friday 07/23/10 with interest. I was pleased with the process because I wasnt expecting to get my check back for 16 weeks. I sent in a copy of the signed HUD, contract, and a copy of the notorized deed transfering title to me. I sent return to Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Kansas City, MO 64999-0002.
I filled nine weeks ago and I havent heard anything yet and my friends that all bought a house and filled after me already heard back on their 8000
My amended return arrived at the Fresno office on March 4th. It is July 28th and I have not received a thing. The advocate drafted a memo to the Freson office and they get another 30-days to respond. I hope I get a check with interest someday!!
closed on 5/21/10. Sent in amended return, etc. on 6/16/10. Called to confirm receipt on 7/29/10. I was told check with interest is scheduled to be mailed on 7/30/10.
I can’t believe that we are still waiting ! We sent in return 4/15/10 and the IRS needed more proof.We sent the paperwork they ask for ,thinking this should settle th issue of residency.The lettler from IRS came back that we didn’t quailfy because we had not rented for 3 years and based on the filing on 2008 we had own a home in 2006!!!!! Someone is asleep at the big wheel .They put in the wrong date.This was our 2009 tax return not 2008,so I am very upset because we haven’t recieved acknowledgememt of the mistake they made which has cost us time and money.We were told today if you don’t receive a written letter call back in 2 weeks.We were told that two weeks ago!!!!
I have a question. If I purchase a house and the closing date is 8/1/2010 do I still qualify for the rebate or is it to late??
John,YES! they have extended this credit til September.
UPDATE: On the IRS website it says that my refund will be deposited into my bank account on 8/6/10. I’ll be checking early tomorrow morning.
This is after waiting since 1/15/10. They are paying me $90.81 in interest. I thought it would be more but at this point, just give me my money!
I sent my 2009 return that included the forms for this tax rebate on April 3. On June 21 I was sent a letter stating that they were disallowing my rebate because I didn’t qualify because of prior residency. I closed on my new house on March 15, 2010. I owned and sold a house on Dec 29 2006. When I called the IRS I was told they were going by my 2007 income tax because I claimed Mortgage interest. I sent my response along with all the paper work I could muster up to prove that it had been three years since ownership. I sent the settment statement for both homes that showed a closing date of 12/29/06 and the settlement statement from my new house showing a closing date of 3/15/2010. I also included the official document that shows the title company didn’t pay the bank until January 26, 2007, which is why I had paid interest. (At the time of sale I owed 6 months worth of late payments). Anyway, I keep getting the runarround saying 45 days for processing. This is absolutely rediculous.
I mailed mine march 9 2010 it was not till july 8th wwhen iI got a letter saying claim allowed. called tax payer aadvocates and told check released july 30. It is aAugust 7 aand sstill nno ccheck. I am worried aand vvery aannoyed. iI’m aabout tto llose mmy llights aand hhouse as mine wwas aallotted ffor mmy diwdown ppayment.
John, it depends. You have to have been under contract before April 30th and the home can be completed anytime before end of September. Also make sure you qualify for the credit. New homebuyers get the full $8,000 and the existing get the $6,500, but check into the rules on the IRS website for the most up to date information. If you were not under contract by April 30th, you do not qualify.
I filed mine through H AND R block on 4/3/10 and i still have not received my refund as of 8/09/10 belive that!
Update on the Races:
6-28-10 - Closed on the house
7-6-10 - IRS recieved my ammended 2009 tax return w/ all paperwork required
7-26-10 - Called IRS from Bill’s number above and they told me try back in 12-16 weeks
7-30-10 - Called again anyway because I wanted to know if they even had my return in the system, nothing yet. They were pretty short on the phone.
8-4-10 - Called again, was told not to even expect anything for 12 weeks, more like 16. Lady was a bit rude.
8-11-10 - Called because my dad told me to a friend of his recieved his check and it was about 6 weeks. The IRS said my check will be mailed out on 8-20-2010 and to expect 7-10 business days. Total amount: $8,103.23 (with interest) nice lady on the phone too.
Long story short, if (heavy on the if) my check is recieved on the date expected: Six weeks for processing from the date you mail in all your paperwork.
I am going to shoot in the dark here, but I wonder if it matters which IRS office is processing? We sent ours to the Fresno office. Just a though…good luck to all of you, I’m still rooting for us all!!!
We mailed our amended return May 10th. Still no word as of yet. Tried to call to get the status one time and was on hold for 20 mins and gave up. We will just bide our time and see what comes in the mail. If a year passes I will start calling….1 year is too long even for a govt worker. We will post an update here if we here something.
Oh Lord, this website is not promising. I started to google this question after waiting for my own credit. Filed in March ‘10 with all appropriate paperwork, heard a request back from the IRS asking for several documents of proof that we actually live in the residence (seriously…why don’t they just drop by and see!), send MULTIPLE forms of proof. Still nothing. Several calls later (with them saying “your case hasn’t been assigned yet” I’m still waiting. After reading that some people have almost been waiting a year I am not feeling very confident. What I don’t understand is why they requested additional proof of ownership. My husband and I truly have never owned anything prior to this home. What is the deal!? So incredibly frustrating.
We just sent off all our paperwork to the tax lady today. It took awhile here to get it all together. I am blown away by the comments from people who closed and then were able to mail it all in, as well as by the comments that some have had it direct deposited. It took 4 weeks to receive our new DLs and another 2 after that to receive the first utility bill. Plus the first four pages of HUD, the car registration showing new address, HO insurance -And our CPA told us that they (the IRS) will not direct deposit these funds- that it will only come via a paper check. Some of this reminds me of the article about a cousin and the comments that followed - several people claiming to know him and his daughter. One even claimed to have coached his daughter’s Bball team (she never played team sports). Take everything you read on the web with a grain of salt.
Filed amended return on June 12th, they recieved it on June 15th…
I have called three times, they tell me 12-16 weeks, but it can come sooner…
The one lady I spoke with said to call back in a few weeks bc they have been pretty quick with getting these out, she said Monday is the best day to call bc that is when they update…
I am praying that mine comes soon, I’m going to call again Monday and see if any update on status…
I am going to try the 800-829-0922 # this time…
We purchased our home Nov 2009, filed taxes in Feb 2010, mailed certified mail IRA received within 1 wk. It is now Aug 20 and still no incentive check. I have spent hours …. on the phone with IRS. They continue to put us off. We have sent them about everything except the torliet seat from the bathroom to prove we purchased a house. I am sorry but I have lost all confidence in the government, and I am convinced they are out of money, the reason for the delay. I got an afficaite as we have had a leak in the roof, now a main water pipe broke inbetween the wall in the basement, water coming in and the micowave went out. I can’t do anything until I get my check…no wonder so many people walk away from their houses. Had I received this money as I should have had it in April, all of these things could have been fixed, now no telling what other problems will steam from not being about to repair these.
Sandy,
I am also curious about the direct deposit thing. The IRS verbally said our check was being “mailed out” on AUG. 20th, but I heard from someone else that theirs was direct deposited. Our original 2009 return was direct deposited via turbo tax. Does that mean the IRS still has our account information and just deposits it instead of a check?
We recieved a letter in the mail on AUG. 21st (BUT DATED: AUG. 23rd) that states:
“You may have already recieved your refund by direct deposit or mail. If not, you can expect it in approximately 2 weeks. Your refund will indicate interest if applicable. We will notify you if any pending matters postpone your refund.”
Has anyone recieved their home buyers refund direct deposit?
Mailed Aug 16 return certified (2009 amended form, Homebuyers tax credit form, HUD-1 form, sales agreement, paystub, banks statement, utility bill, first 5 pages of title (notarized)-all with new address on it, highlighted, with my name and soc sec on bottom of each page (so nothing gets lost)- . They received it on Aug. 19. Refund was processed Aug. 24. 2010. Was told I should receive it on 9/24. or before. BUT to my old address. Gladly, that’s my parent’s address. IT IS IMPORTANT TO FILL OUT A CHANGE OF ADDRESS FORM with the IRS. Glad it’s on it’s way! Hope it helps!
Contract before April 30th.
Closed early June.
Submitted all forms a couple of days after for credit.
So I have been waiting on my credit for close to 12 weeks without any sort of confirmation letter - NOTHING. Needless to say, I was becoming a little concerned, so I called the IRS (800-829-0582 X462). After being on hold for almost 20 minutes, I spoke with a representative who took me through numerous questions to verify my identity. She finally came back and told me that my check had been sent out previously and returned due to it being sent to my OLD address. Funny, I thought that I had made all of those corrections at that time! That, and you would think that since you have to use the home as your primary residence to qualify, the check would obviously need to be sent there… Regardless, the point is that the woman did state that she would put in the request to have the check reprinted and sent to the correct address, but that can take 3-4 weeks. She said that I should call in about 3 weeks, and I would be able to get the most up-to-date info. Wow, what a headache!!! But at least I am getting my money plus interest for a total of $8,054.29. Oh and by the way - the rep also stated that as an FYI, the interest WOULD need to be reported on my next set of taxes…lovely…what is the point?? Oh, we will compensate you for our mistakes, but you will have to pay for it. Just a heads up people - if you haven’t heard anything, call!
I filed in Feb 2010.then I received a letter from IRS that they didn’t received my settlement statement. I sent it but I re-sent it again. and then they gave me an another letter. they need some proof of “I currently live the new house.” So I sent some bills and bank statements of my new address on them. it was JUNE. what’s goin on?? anybody???????