You might want to check if you're accidentally hitting the "audit lottery" by having perfectly round numbers on your Schedule C deductions. I had a client who got audited 3 years straight because they always put numbers like $1,000 or $500 for expenses instead of actual figures like $983.27. The IRS automated systems flag returns with too many round numbers as statistically unusual - real expenses rarely add up to perfect $100 increments. Try being more precise with your expense tracking and see if that helps.

Have you considered filing Form 911 (Request for Taxpayer Advocate Service Assistance)? Given that you've been audited four consecutive years with minimal findings, this could qualify as a "significant hardship" case. The Taxpayer Advocate Service is designed to help in situations exactly like yours where the normal IRS processes seem to be causing unreasonable burden. When you file Form 911, be specific about the pattern - four consecutive audits, minimal adjustments totaling less than $200, and the financial and emotional toll this is taking. Include documentation from all previous audits showing the outcomes. The TAS can actually review your account internally and may be able to identify specific flags or codes that are triggering these repeated selections. Also, consider whether you've been consistent in how you report your digital marketing income. Even if you're reporting everything correctly, switching between different income reporting methods (1099-NEC vs. 1099-MISC classifications, or changes in business expense categories) can sometimes trigger the audit selection algorithm. The IRS computers look for patterns and inconsistencies, even when everything is legitimate.

Hey Miguel, I went through almost the exact same thing earlier this year! Filed in March, everything looked good, then boom - 971 code appeared. I was freaking out because I needed that refund for some medical bills. Turned out to be income verification - they just needed to confirm my 1099 income matched what was reported. Got the letter about 10 days after the 971 code date, sent back the requested docs, and had my refund 3 weeks later. The 570 code (which you mentioned having) does put a hold on processing, but once they get what they need and verify everything, it moves pretty quickly. The waiting is the worst part honestly. Try not to stress too much about it - in most cases it's something simple that just needs clarification. And definitely keep checking your mail daily for that notice so you can respond ASAP when it arrives. Hope you get it sorted out soon! 🤞

I feel your pain Miguel! I just went through this exact scenario a few weeks ago. Had all the good codes, was expecting my refund around the same timeframe as you, then the dreaded 971 showed up. Mine ended up being an identity verification issue - they needed me to confirm my identity online through ID.me. The whole process took about 2 weeks from when I got the letter to when my refund was released. The key is responding to whatever they ask for as quickly as possible. One thing that helped me was setting up text alerts through the IRS2Go app so I'd know immediately when my transcript updated. Also, if you haven't already, sign up for USPS Informed Delivery so you can see what mail is coming each day - that notice is probably already on its way to you. Try to stay positive - I know it's stressful when you're counting on that money, but the vast majority of 971 codes get resolved without major issues. Just be ready to act fast when that letter arrives! Hang in there 💪

Serious question: Has anyone successfully claimed their dog as a dependent? Asking for a friend... 🐶💼

I'm dealing with something similar! Filed in early March and did the identity verification about 3 weeks ago. Still stuck on "received" status too. What's really frustrating is that they give you these timeframes (like "21 days after verification") but then there's no follow-up when they don't meet them. I've been checking the transcript tool that @Anastasia Sokolov mentioned - it does show a bit more detail than the basic refund tracker. Hang in there, hopefully we'll see movement soon! 🤞

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

Hey Phillip! I've been seeing this same message for about 10 days now. From what I've gathered talking to others and doing some research, this is basically the IRS's standard "we got your return and we're working on it" message. It doesn't necessarily mean there's a problem - they just haven't finished processing it yet. The 21 day timeframe is more of a guideline than a guarantee, especially during busy filing season. If it's been longer than 21 days from when they received it, that's when you might want to call them directly. In the meantime, just keep checking WMR every few days for updates. Hope this helps ease some worry!

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

Hey Troy! I went through something similar last year. The 811 code basically means they're doing an income verification - they're cross-checking what you reported against W-2s, 1099s, and other third-party documents they have on file. The 420 code is the actual examination/audit code. Having both usually means they found some discrepancies during the automated income matching process and now want to do a more thorough review. In my experience, these combo audits typically take 3-6 months depending on how complex your return is. Make sure you have all your income documentation ready - pay stubs, bank statements, receipts for deductions, etc. The good news is most of these resolve without major issues if your paperwork is in order. Hang in there!