Will my tax refund only be delayed if I file with the AMT or will it apply to all refunds?

Question

The IRS website say "some" refunds "may" be delayed. Not sure what it means. Thanks

Answer 1

Watch the news.

With the patch, 1040EZ filers cannot mathematically owe AMT, but I suspect the IRS doesn't want people to file a 1040EZ now a 1040X later when they could have filed a correct 1040A to start with.

Unfortunately, the way the programs are written, there's no easy way to say if you make less than $75K, we'll process your return otherwise you wait. (For starters, I've seen MFS filers with 3 kids pay AMT at less than $50K.)

Answer 2

people who would not be subject to the AMT even if Congress hadn't 'patched' it for this year should not have their refunds delayed. [the computer code that calculates their tax isn't changing and they don't have to file the AMT form.]

however, if the 'patch' to the AMT would affect your return, or if you will owe AMT in either case, the 'fix' will hold up processing your return for some weeks. [If you'll owe anyway, the 'patch' reduces the amount owed.]

Answer 3

The only ones to be delayed are the ones that the AMT applies to. If you don't earn enough to be involved with the AMT then it won't be delayed.