Thousands of taxpayers in North Carolina are facing unexpected delays in receiving their state tax refunds for 2025. While the usual Tax Day deadline has passed, many residents are still left waiting for checks that should’ve arrived weeks ago. The issue isn’t due to errors in filing, but rather a major disruption in the refund printing and mailing process caused by a third-party vendor.
Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s happening, why refunds are delayed, and what taxpayers across the U.S. should know.
Why North Carolina Tax Refunds Are Delayed
The North Carolina Department of Revenue relies on an outside vendor, Professional Mail Services, Inc., to print and send out state refund checks and tax notices. But in a sudden and unplanned move, the company abruptly shut down, halting the distribution of important tax documents.
This shutdown came without warning, and it has left many refunds marked as “Check mailed” on the state’s Where’s My Refund? tool, even though the checks haven’t actually been sent. For residents relying on those funds—some of them in urgent need—the delay has caused frustration and confusion.
What the State Is Doing About It
Officials from the North Carolina Department of Revenue have acknowledged the issue and posted an alert on their website. They say they are currently evaluating the impact and working on a plan to restore printing and mailing services.
A spokesperson assured that updates would be provided as soon as possible, and they understand how important it is to get refunds to taxpayers quickly and efficiently.
Real-Life Frustration
One Wake County resident spoke to CBS affiliate WNCN, sharing that his refund status showed “Check mailed” nearly three weeks ago. But the check never arrived. When he called the Department of Revenue, he was told there was a problem with the printer. Like many, he was counting on the refund and was disappointed by the delay.
He added, “I’ve lived here for 30 years and never had issues getting a refund. I need this money and expected it weeks ago.”
How Refund Timelines Usually Work
Each U.S. state has its own tax agency and processes returns at different speeds. Several factors affect how long it takes to receive a refund:
1. Filing Method:
E-filing usually results in faster processing compared to paper filing. In most states, electronically filed returns are processed within a few weeks. Paper returns can take several weeks or even months.
2. Return Accuracy:
Returns that are complete and error-free are processed faster. Any mistakes or missing details can delay your refund.
3. State Systems and Staff:
The speed also depends on the state’s system, technology, and resources. Some states are faster than others, and disruptions like North Carolina’s current issue can slow things down further.
What You Can Do Now
If you’re a North Carolina resident still waiting for your refund:
Check the NC Department of Revenue website regularly for updates
Use the Where’s My Refund? tool to track your refund status
Consider contacting the Department of Revenue directly for clarification
Be patient, as the department is working on a solution
If you’re in another state and still waiting for your refund, remember that delays can also happen due to system backlogs, mailing issues, or errors in your return.
IRS Speaks Out
The IRS previously addressed refund timelines and noted that average tax refunds in 2025 have increased compared to last year. Despite earlier fears of delays due to staffing and system changes, federal tax returns have largely been processed on time.
However, state returns are handled separately, and issues like the one in North Carolina highlight how problems at the state level can still cause unexpected holdups.
The tax refund delay in North Carolina is not the fault of taxpayers, but due to an unexpected vendor shutdown that has interrupted the mailing of refunds. The state is working on restoring services, but in the meantime, residents should keep checking their refund status online and stay informed about updates. Taxpayers in other states should also remember that filing method, accuracy, and state systems all affect refund timing.