The CP53B is another delay notice in the CP53 series. Your refund has been delayed beyond the timeframe stated in the original CP53 and the CP53A follow-up. The IRS needs additional time for review. This is the third notice in the delay sequence, which means your refund has been held for a significant period.
Why the Extended Delay
At this point, the delay is likely due to a complex review that involves multiple IRS functions, a backlog in the specific processing unit handling your return, a system issue that requires manual intervention, or verification steps that depend on information from third parties (employers, financial institutions) that hasn't arrived yet.
What to Do
If the CP53B doesn't request action from you, continue waiting. If it provides a new estimated date, mark it and follow up if that date passes. If you've been waiting more than 120 days total across all CP53 variants, consider contacting the Taxpayer Advocate Service. TAS can intervene when refund processing is unreasonably delayed.
Interest Accrues in Your Favor
The IRS pays interest on refunds delayed beyond 45 days from the filing deadline. The longer the delay, the more interest you earn. When your refund finally arrives, it should include all accrued interest.
If your refund has been delayed through multiple CP53 notices, call us at (813) 229-7100.