by Thousands of North Carolina taxpayers are experiencing frustrating delays in receiving their 2025 state tax refunds. The issue stems from a sudden shutdown of the third-party vendor responsible for printing and mailing checks—not from errors in filing or processing.
Here’s what you need to know about the delay, who’s affected, and what the state is doing to resolve the issue.
What Happened
The North Carolina Department of Revenue (NCDOR) uses a private company—Professional Mail Services, Inc.—to handle the printing and mailing of tax refund checks and notices.
In an abrupt and unannounced move, the vendor ceased operations.
As a result, many taxpayers who were told their checks were mailed never actually received them.
Key Details
- Vendor Shutdown: Professional Mail Services, Inc. unexpectedly shut down operations.
- System Mismatch: Refunds are still showing as “Check mailed” on the Where’s My Refund? tool, even though no checks were sent.
- Widespread Impact: Thousands of North Carolinians are left waiting, many depending on those funds for essential needs.
This shutdown disrupted not just refunds but also other printed tax documents.
Reactions or Statements
The NCDOR has acknowledged the issue and posted an alert on its website.
Officials say they are assessing the damage and working on restoring check printing and mailing services as soon as possible.
A department spokesperson stated, “We understand the urgency of this matter and are working on a resolution to ensure all affected taxpayers receive their refunds.”
Real-World Frustration
A Wake County resident shared his experience with local CBS affiliate WNCN.
He reported his refund was marked as “mailed” nearly three weeks ago, but nothing arrived.
“When I called, they said the printer had a problem,” he said. “I’ve lived here 30 years and never had issues like this. I need this money.”
How Refund Timelines Usually Work
| Factor | Effect on Refund Time |
|---|---|
| Filing Method | E-filing is faster than paper returns |
| Return Accuracy | Incomplete or incorrect returns take longer |
| State Systems & Staff | Some states process faster due to better tech |
In normal years, refunds arrive within a few weeks after electronic filing. Paper returns and errors can add delays, even without vendor issues.
What’s Next
The NCDOR is actively working on a plan to resume refund check mailing.
Updates will be posted on their official website as the situation evolves.
Taxpayers are advised to:
- Use the Where’s My Refund? tool regularly
- Monitor official updates from the NCDOR
- Contact the department directly if needed
- Be patient as the issue is resolved
FAQs
Q: Why is my refund marked as “mailed” but I haven’t received it?
A: Due to the vendor shutdown, some refunds were not actually mailed despite being marked as sent.
Q: Who is responsible for the delays?
A: The delays are due to the third-party vendor, not the taxpayers or the Department of Revenue directly.
Q: What should I do if I still haven’t received my refund?
A: Keep checking the Where’s My Refund? tool, monitor updates, and contact the NCDOR if necessary.
Q: Are refunds in other states affected too?
A: No. This issue is specific to North Carolina. Other states may face separate delays, but not from this vendor.
Q: Will I get interest or compensation for the delay?
A: As of now, the NCDOR has not announced any compensation for the delays.
Summary / Final Takeaway
North Carolina’s 2025 tax refund delays are the result of a sudden vendor shutdown, not taxpayer error.
The state is actively working to resolve the problem and resume refund distribution. Affected taxpayers should stay informed, remain patient, and continue monitoring their refund status online.
