Most of us get refund checks at tax time. And most of the time, those refunds are just what we had been eagerly awaiting. But occasionally, the amount on an IRS check is not what we expected. In some cases, it’s less than we figured on our 1040s. Every now and then, it’s more.

Regardless of whether the refund discrepancy goes against you or favors you, some steps can be taken to resolve the matter. That way, even if you and the tax collector aren’t necessarily satisfied with the eventual amount, you’ll at least understand the mathematical misinterpretation.

Explanation en route

First, don’t panic. There’s usually a logical explanation for why you and the Internal Revenue Service came up with different numbers.

The IRS will send you a written explanation for the unexpected amount. The only problem is that the explanation doesn’t always accompany the check. Such coordination of cash and comment is particularly difficult with directly deposited refunds, which are likely to show up unexplained in your account first.

Why your refund might be an unexpected amount: Read the rest of this entry »