I found out from a tax pro that if you e-file both current and prior year returns on the same day, the prior year return sometimes gets flagged for manual review automatically, even if there are no issues with it. Just one more broken part of the system. Give it 90 days before worrying.

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! Filed my 2022 and 2023 returns together in March and my 2023 came back in 3 weeks while 2022 is still "processing" after 8 weeks. It's so frustrating seeing one get handled quickly while the other just sits there. Based on what everyone's saying here, sounds like this is totally normal but the IRS really needs to be more transparent about these different processing timelines. Would've saved me weeks of stress checking Where's My Refund every day! Thanks for posting this - at least now I know I'm not alone and it's not something I did wrong.

I'm still confused about something. If the 403b amount is already subtracted from Box 1, why do they bother putting it in Box 12 at all? Seems redundant?

This is such a common source of confusion! I went through the exact same thing with my 403b last year. The key thing to remember is that 403b contributions are "pre-tax" deductions, which means they come out of your paycheck BEFORE taxes are calculated. So when you see that Code E amount in Box 12b, it's not telling you to subtract anything additional - it's just documenting what was already subtracted throughout the year with each paycheck. Your Box 1 wages are your "after 403b contribution" amount. One tip that helped me verify this: if you have access to your employee portal or HR system, you can usually see a year-end summary that shows your total gross pay vs. your taxable wages. The difference should match your 403b contributions plus any other pre-tax benefits like health insurance premiums. Don't stress about missing a deduction - you're getting the tax benefit automatically through the reduced Box 1 amount!

Check your credit reports asap! If they got enough info to file taxes they might try other stuff too

I'm so sorry this happened to you! Identity theft for tax purposes is unfortunately becoming more common. The good news is that the IRS caught it before paying out your refund to the scammer. A few additional things to consider beyond what Maya mentioned: - When you file Form 14039, make sure to check the box indicating "Someone filed a tax return using my SSN" - Keep photocopies of everything you mail to the IRS - Consider filing a police report in your local jurisdiction - some states require this for identity theft cases - Monitor your Social Security earnings record at ssa.gov to make sure no fraudulent W-2s were filed under your SSN The paper filing process will take longer to get your refund (typically 6-8 weeks longer than e-filing), but it's the only way to ensure your legitimate return gets processed. The IP PIN will be a lifesaver for future tax seasons - once you have one, you'll need it every year but it essentially makes your tax identity theft-proof. Stay strong - this is stressful but very manageable with the right steps! 💪

Did you file with a tax preparer or DIY? Sometimes tax prep software has its own verification process that's separate from the IRS verification, which can cause confusion.

This is so frustrating and unfortunately more common than it should be. The IRS internal systems often flag accounts for verification before the external systems (transcripts, WMR) are updated to reflect this. I went through something similar last year where agents kept telling me I needed to verify but I had zero documentation of this anywhere online. A few things that might help: • When you call again, ask the agent for the specific verification method they need (ID.me, documents by mail, phone verification, etc.) • Request they email you a summary of what was discussed or give you a confirmation number • Ask if there's a specific department or phone number for verification issues rather than the general line • Try calling the Practitioner Priority Service line if you know any tax professionals - they sometimes have better access to current account status The disconnect between what agents see and what taxpayers can access online is one of the biggest flaws in their system. Don't give up - keep calling until you get someone who can actually help you complete the verification process rather than just telling you to wait for a letter that may never come.

Just wondering if anyone knows why this shift is happening? Is it just CPAs trying to save time, or is there something regulatory driving it? My tax guy is also requiring more upfront information this year but said it was because of "new compliance requirements.

As someone who's been through this exact situation, I completely understand your frustration. At 68 with health issues, you shouldn't have to spend hours deciphering confusing questionnaires when you're already paying $525 for professional tax preparation. This shift is unfortunately becoming more common as preparers try to streamline their workflow and handle more clients, but it doesn't mean you have to accept it. Here's what I'd suggest: 1. Call your CPA directly and explain your situation - mention your age, health concerns, and that this new process is overwhelming. Ask if they can accommodate the traditional service model you've been used to. 2. If they won't budge, consider shopping around for a smaller local firm or independent practitioner who still offers personalized service. Many do, especially for established clients with straightforward returns. 3. You could also ask about a fee reduction since you're doing more of the legwork, or inquire if they have different service tiers available. Don't feel obligated to struggle through this process just because it's "becoming standard." There are still tax professionals out there who believe in providing full-service preparation, especially for clients in your situation. Your business has value, and you deserve service that works for you, not the other way around.