FYI for anyone who needs this - if ur transcript shows N/A for 2023, it doesn't mean ur return isn't in the system. It just means it hasn't been fully processed yet. Mine was N/A for 3 wks then suddenly appeared w/ all processing steps completed at once. Checked at 6am on a Friday and boom - full transcript w/ DDD. Def check early AM for best results.

This is incredibly helpful information! I've been part of the daily refresh crowd myself, but understanding the cycle code system changes everything. For anyone still confused about finding their cycle code - it's typically visible on your Account Transcript in the top right section. One thing I'd add: if you're in a situation where you need updates faster than your cycle allows (like for loan applications or other time-sensitive matters), the IRS does offer expedited processing in certain circumstances. You can request this through their practitioner priority service if you're working with a tax professional, or sometimes directly if you can demonstrate financial hardship. Also worth noting that during peak filing season (January-April), the system can experience delays even on your designated update day, so don't panic if your Monday update doesn't appear until Tuesday - the IRS typically catches up within 24-48 hours during high-volume periods.

I'm in a similar boat with Greendot - filed February 22nd, transcript shows 846 code with March 16th deposit date, but nothing yet. Based on what others are saying here, it sounds like the 24-48 hour delay after the transcript date is pretty normal for Greendot. I'm trying not to stress about it since March 16th was a Saturday, so realistically I'm probably looking at Monday or Tuesday. It's frustrating when you're counting on the money for important things like your medical appointments. Have you tried checking your account early in the morning? I've heard they sometimes update around 3-4am EST like someone mentioned above.

I've been using Greendot for tax refunds for the past 3 years and can share some insights that might help ease your worry about the medical appointments. In my experience, Greendot is pretty reliable - they just run on a different timeline than traditional banks. The 846 code with March 15th date means the IRS has officially sent your refund, so it's definitely on its way. Since March 15th was a Friday, you'll likely see it Monday or Tuesday morning (around 3-4am like others mentioned). I've never had a refund actually get "lost" with Greendot, just delayed by their processing schedule. The good news is once it hits, you'll have your funds for those medical appointments. Try not to stress too much - your money is coming!

According to IRS Internal Revenue Manual 25.15.3.4.1, you may qualify for streamlined determination if your case meets certain criteria. The Tax Court ruling in Henson v. Commissioner established that knowledge of the activity causing the understatement doesn't automatically disqualify you from relief. Consider filing Form 911 (Taxpayer Advocate Service request) alongside your Form 8857 if you're experiencing financial hardship due to this offset. The Taxpayer Advocate can sometimes expedite innocent spouse claims when there's demonstrated economic burden under IRC §7811.

I went through this exact nightmare two years ago! The IRS grabbed my $3,200 refund for my ex's unpaid business taxes from when we were married. It felt like being punished for someone else's crimes while they walked free. Here's what worked for me: I filed Form 8857 immediately and included a detailed timeline showing I had zero involvement in his business decisions. The key was proving I didn't benefit from whatever caused the tax debt - I attached bank statements showing his business income went to separate accounts I never accessed. Pro tip: Don't wait on this! The 2-year deadline is real and the IRS doesn't give extensions. I also sent everything certified mail with return receipts because regular mail seems to disappear into their black hole filing system. My case took 5 months to resolve, but they released my full refund plus interest. The relief was worth more than the money - finally being free from his financial mistakes felt like escaping prison. Document everything and stay persistent!

Does anyone know if having an instagram where I post outfit ideas and styling tips counts as advertising for tax purposes? I spend a lot of time on that but never thought of it as a business expense before.

Great question Mei! As someone who went through this exact same situation last year, I totally understand the overwhelm. Here are some key points that really helped me: **Start with the basics:** You'll file Schedule C with your regular tax return. The good news is you don't need any special permits for federal tax purposes - just treat it like any other business. **Essential deductions to track:** Transportation to clients (huge one!), professional development (workshops, courses), business use of your phone/internet, photography equipment for portfolio work, business cards/marketing materials, and any styling tools or equipment. **Organization tip:** I wish someone had told me this earlier - set up a separate business checking account even if it's just a free one. It makes tracking so much cleaner and shows the IRS you're treating this as a legitimate business. **Self-employment tax:** This caught me off guard my first year! You'll pay about 15.3% on your net profit for Social Security/Medicare, plus regular income tax. Setting aside 25-30% of each payment you receive is a good rule of thumb. The most important thing is to start tracking everything NOW, even if you're not perfectly organized yet. You've got this! Feel free to ask if you have specific questions about any deductions.

To all those having trouble reaching a human at IRS. I just ran across this video that gave me a shortcut to reach a human. Hope it helps! https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c

Based on my experience, you'll need to submit either Form 8821 or 2848 to get your CAF number assigned. Since you've been filing 8821s with your returns, you should already have a CAF number - you just might not know what it is! Try calling the Practitioner Priority Line at 1-866-860-4259 and explain that you've been submitting 8821s for years but don't know your CAF number. They should be able to look it up for you. If for some reason you don't have one yet, you'll need to submit a new 8821 or 2848 form (you can leave the CAF number field blank) and wait for it to be processed. The fax method mentioned by Todd is definitely faster than mailing it in.