Due to a spike in fraudulent returns filed, the state of North Dakota has temporarily suspended the issuing of all tax refunds.

In an interview with Valley News Live, North Dakota tax commissioner Ryan Rauschenberger explained how the state would attempt to combat the influx of fraudulent returns:

We are adjusting resources and staff as needed, and instituting additional review processes to ensure we are doing everything possible to stop identity thieves. Each tax return will receive a comprehensive review for any indication of identity theft in order to stop fraudulent attempts to claim tax refunds.

Due to these additional review processes, it will take longer for refunds to be issued, once the suspension is lifted.

The suspended refunds effect both checks and direct deposits. To check the status of your refund, visit www.nd.gov/tax and use the 'Where's My Refund?' tool.

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