Technically HRB doesn't "use" any bank for direct deposit to your personal account. If you just did standard direct deposit, the IRS sends it directly to your bank. If the account/routing number is correct but no money arrived, then either: 1) Your bank rejected it for some reason (name mismatch, closed account, etc) or 2) The IRS is having a delay. You need to call the IRS because if your bank rejected it, the IRS automatically converts to a paper check but this takes several more weeks.

I've been through this exact situation and it's so frustrating! Based on your transcript showing code 846 on 5/22 and no deposit after 8 days, the direct deposit was almost certainly rejected by your bank. The IRS has probably already initiated a paper check but it won't show up on your transcript right away. A few things to check: Make sure the name on your tax return matches your bank account exactly (even middle initials matter), and call your bank's customer service to ask if they have any record of rejecting a deposit - sometimes they don't proactively tell you. The paper check should arrive within 2-4 weeks of the rejection, but getting confirmation from the IRS directly will give you peace of mind about the timeline. Hang in there - you'll get your money, it's just taking the scenic route!

I literally just finished my taxes and had this exact same question! What I ended up putting was "Web development business startup costs - equipment purchases, hosting services, and business licenses." TurboTax accepted that with no issues. Make sure you keep good records of all your startup expenses though. If you ever get audited, you'll need to show what exactly made up that $3,500. I created a spreadsheet with all my expenses and kept digital copies of all receipts just to be safe.

For expense tracking, I've been using a combination of QuickBooks Self-Employed and just taking photos of receipts with my phone immediately after purchases. QuickBooks automatically categorizes most transactions from your bank account, and you can snap photos of cash receipts right in the app. The key is to stay on top of it - I spent like 10 minutes every Sunday just reviewing the week's expenses and making sure everything was categorized correctly. Way easier than trying to sort through a pile of crumpled receipts at tax time! There are also simpler apps like Expensify if you don't need full accounting software. Just make sure whatever system you use can export everything to a spreadsheet or PDF for tax purposes. Having organized records makes filling out those TurboTax fields so much less stressful.

Has anyone used TurboTax for this kind of situation? I have a similar issue with RSUs vesting after leaving the US and I'm wondering if regular tax software can handle it or if I need to hire a specialist.

I went through this exact situation last year! As a former F1 visa holder now living in Canada, I can confirm that you typically don't need to pay Social Security and Medicare taxes on stock vestings that occur after you've left the US. The key points for your situation: 1. You'll need to file Form 1040-NR as a non-resident alien 2. Report the stock vesting income, but FICA taxes generally don't apply since you're no longer providing services in the US 3. Definitely look into the US-Canada tax treaty provisions - you may be able to claim treaty benefits to reduce your US tax burden 4. On your Canadian return, you'll report this as foreign income and can likely claim a foreign tax credit for any US taxes paid The stock vesting is considered compensation for work you performed while in the US, but since you had the F1 FICA exemption when you earned it, that exemption typically carries forward. Just make sure you're properly documenting your non-resident status and the dates when you left the US. I'd recommend keeping detailed records of when you left the US, your visa status history, and all stock vesting documents. This will be helpful if you ever need to explain your tax position to either the IRS or CRA.

these clowns at the irs need to get it together fr. every year its the same mess 🤡

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! Filed last week and got the same "letter requesting more information" message. It's so stressful because like you said, nothing changed from last year. I called the IRS helpline but they just said to wait for the letter. Really hoping it's just routine verification like Santiago mentioned and not something more serious. Keep us updated when you get your letter!

Don't forget about the impacts on your credit! A levy or ongoing tax debt can seriously damage your credit score, which might also affect your visa process since they often look at financial stability. As soon as you get on a payment plan, request a withdrawal of any filed Notice of Federal Tax Lien (Form 12277). This can help repair your credit faster. The lien withdrawal doesn't remove your obligation to pay the debt, but it removes the public notice which hurts your credit.

I'm sorry you're going through this stressful situation. A few additional things to consider that might help: Since you mentioned your health condition, make sure to gather all your medical expense documentation. The IRS has provisions for financial hardship due to medical issues, and this could strengthen your case for an installment agreement or even Currently Not Collectible status. Also, regarding your K1 visa concerns - you're right to be worried about income requirements. When you call the IRS, specifically mention that you're sponsoring someone for immigration and ask them to note this in your file. Having an active payment plan is much better than an unresolved levy for immigration purposes, as it shows you're taking responsibility for your obligations. One more thing - after you get your payment plan set up, consider consulting with an Enrolled Agent or tax attorney who specializes in tax debt resolution. Many offer free consultations and can review your situation to see if you qualify for additional relief options you might not know about. The most important thing is to act quickly. Don't wait until after the levy hits - call first thing Monday morning. You still have options, and the IRS would rather work with you than go through the levy process. Stay organized, be honest about your situation, and don't be afraid to ask about all available relief programs.