It depends on whether or not you have any possible outstanding debt with child support (including spouse if married filing joint) other causes are student loans, non private hospital or transit fines, unpaid fed or state tax debts. There will be a delay in processing the payment if you are in negative status with these particular entities. Otherwise if you e-filed your return it can take 3-4 weeks , if direct deposit, sometimes up to 15 days, if snail mail it can take about 6 weeks. If there is still a crazy delay, check the IRS website with a copy of your filed return. This is a great website. If all else fails...call 1-800-829-1040 with a copy and speak to an agent. Be patient when making the call.