Q&A: IRS pays interest on late refunds

Dear Liz: I filed my return electronically with direct deposit. I have yet to receive my refund or that stimulus relief check. We have to pay interest on any late tax payment. Will the IRS pay interest on late refunds?

Answer: The IRS has said it will pay interest on late refunds if the return was filed by July 15, the extended tax deadline. The interest “will generally be paid from April 15, 2020, until the date of the refund,” the IRS says on its site. Don’t expect to get rich: The interest rate for the second quarter, which ended June 30, is 5% a year, while the interest rate for the third quarter, which ends Sept. 30, is 3% a year.

Monday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Insurers turn to technology to woo drivers. Also in the news: Beemers, Benzes and other luxury used-car bargains, 7 tactics to help car-buying newbies bargain like a boss, and credit cards still charge interest after you die.

Insurers Turn to Technology to Woo Drivers
Gadgets that can keep your rates down.

Beemers, Benzes and Other Luxury Used-Car Bargains
Luxury for less.

7 Tactics to Help Car-Buying Newbies Bargain Like a Boss
Don’t let them see you sweat.

Credit Cards Still Charge Interest After You Die
Inescapable interest.

Tuesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: What really happens if you don’t pay your taxes by April 17th. Also in the news: Getting tax audit help might be easier than you think, are you the right person for a do-it-yourself house kit, and 6 great TV episodes to watch after paying your taxes.

What Really Happens If You Don’t Pay Your Taxes by April 17
Cue the penalties.

Getting Tax Audit Help Might Be Easier Than You Think
Your tax software can help.

Are You Built for a Do-It-Yourself House Kit?
Do you have what it takes?

6 Great TV Episodes to Watch After Paying Your Taxes
Join The Honeymooners, Archie Bunker and Homer.

Friday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: New payday loan rule protects borrowers from sinking into debt. Also in the news: Sailing into Columbus Day sales, how to make money on Amazon, and why you’re losing money if cash is your only savings strategy.

New Payday Loan Rule Protects Borrowers From Sinking Into Debt
Protecting the consumer.

Should You Sail Into Columbus Day Sales?
What to purchase this weekend.

How to Make Money on Amazon
So that you can turn around and then spend it on Amazon.

If Cash Is Your Only Savings Strategy, You’re Losing Money
A piggy bank doesn’t draw interest.

Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

budgetToday’s top story: How to earn more interest on your money. Also in the news: When and how to appeal a financial aid award, what you need to know about estate planning, and how keeping your finances simple can ensure you staying on top of them.

4 Ways to Earn More Interest on Your Money
Making your money work for you.

When and How to Appeal a Financial Aid Award
Asking for more.

Do I need a will? What to know about estate planning
YES.

Keep Your Finances Simple to Ensure You Stay On Top of Them
Don’t overcomplicate things.

Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

847_interestrates1Today’s top story: The importance of understanding interest rates. Also in the news: Protecting your identity while shopping online, the pros and cons of retirement annuities, and what you should ask before paying your medical bills.

Misunderstood Money Math: Why Interest Matters More Than You Think
Understanding the complicated world of interest rates.

8 Ways to Protect Your Identity While Online Shopping
While you’re shopping for deals, hackers are shopping for you.

Who Benefits From Retirement Annuities
The pros and cons of a retirement annuity.

6 Questions You Should Ask Before Paying Any Medical Bill
Analyze every single penny.

The Right Way to Tap Your IRA in Retirement
RMDs can trip you up.