VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Jessica Fitzwilliam filed her taxes back in March, but still hasn't received her federal tax refund. She's expecting more than $5,000.
"I definitely thought it would not take this much time," Fitzwilliam said.
She's not alone. Local Congresswoman Elaine Luria says her office has heard from dozens of constituents.
"Folks have been waiting and waiting and waiting," Luria told News 3 Tuesday. "By the time somebody gets frustrated enough to call us, it truly is a problem, and we've heard from dozens of people."
Luria is now sending a letter to the IRS trying to get answers and asking how the IRS can speed up the process.
"Definitely hearing a lot of frustration, especially during this time when people are finding themselves in a difficult financial situation," she said.
Fitzwilliam says she's a planner and saver, but had to purchase flights following the death of her father out of state. In addition, she's seeing less commissions coming in as a real estate agent. She's also a mom to twin toddlers.
"All of that is financially hurting, but what do you do? You have to go with life sometimes," Fitzwilliam said. "It would definitely be helpful to get some of this money back."
The IRS didn't respond to a request for comment from News 3. Their website says most refunds are issued within 21 days, but they've faced staffing shortages during the pandemic.
Those waiting just hope there's a solution soon. Fitzwilliam says she's still making ends meet, but just wants to know where her money is. "I'm lucky in the situation we're in, but I definitely could use it to pay the bills. Don't get me wrong."
