How to Get an Update on Your Previously Submitted Employee Retention Credit (ERC) Claim
The IRS placed a moratorium on processing Employee Retention Credit (ERC) claims on September 14, 2023. However, as of August 2024, the IRS has lifted the moratorium and is now fully processing ERC claims submitted before January 31, 2024 (according to an IRS agent we spoke to). If you have not yet received your ERC refund, here are some recommended steps to obtain an update from the IRS.
1. Call the IRS to Speak to an Agent
- IRS agents cannot provide a specific timeframe for claim completion but can confirm:
- Receipt of your ERC claim
- Which quarters were received
- Status of your claim (e.g., whether it has been assigned to an agent or if additional information is required)
- Be prepared for identity verification when calling the IRS. Have the following information handy:
- Employer Identification Number (EIN)
- Address on file with the IRS
- Approximate date of business formation
- Title (Owner, CEO, etc.)
- Forms filed with the IRS
- Financial year-end month
- Type of entity (LLC, C-Corp, Partnership, etc.)
2. Work with Your Tax Preparer to Access IRS Transcripts
- IRS transcripts are an efficient way to confirm:
- The receipt of your ERC claim by the IRS
- Any status updates or changes in the processing of your claim
- Your tax preparer can help you retrieve these transcripts to stay informed.
3. Contact Your Congressperson for Assistance
- Some Rockerbox clients have had success engaging with their local congressperson’s office.
- Many times, congressional offices contact the IRS through the Taxpayer Advocacy Service (TAS) to obtain updates on behalf of the employer.
- Rockerbox has created a template letter that many clients have used to initiate this request. Contact us if you need assistance.
4. Contact the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) Directly
- The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) is an independent office within the IRS that assists taxpayers experiencing delays.
- You can contact the TAS:
- Phone: 1-877-777-4778
- Online: Taxpayer Advocate Service
Important Notes
- This is not legal or tax advice—we are simply providing resources to help employers contact the IRS for an ERC claim update.
- When speaking with IRS agents:
- Be courteous and professional
- Understand that you will not be speaking to the actual agent processing your ERC claim, but rather an agent who can provide status updates
- Be patient—the IRS is processing a large volume of claims
Need Additional Assistance?
If you need further help navigating the ERC claim process, please contact Rockerbox. We’re here to support you in ensuring your claim is processed as efficiently as possible.