Refund checks to Iowa taxpayers next year may not go out as promptly as they have in the past. Iowa Department of Revenue Director Courtney Kay-Decker says the slow down on the refund process is expected as her agency cracks down on fraud.
“I hate to tell you, but I think we are going to slow that process down just a touch because we would like to make sure that we have the opportunity to do more front-end fraud checks,” Kay-Decker said at a recent Statehouse budget hearing. “It’s something we’re always working on and trying to keep on top of…whatever is the latest fraud.”
The director was reluctant to share information about how many tax filers they’ve caught asking for refunds they’re not entitled to.
“I do know we’ve stopped significant amounts of fraud. The criminals are always trying to be one step ahead of you and we don’t want them to know what we’re doing – other than that we’re doing it and we’re continuing to do more and more,” Kay-Decker said.
Governor Branstad praised the agency for its efficiency in issuing refunds in the past. Branstad said last year he got his state refund back well before his federal check arrived.