idk why they make this so complicated fr. like why we gotta be code breakers to get our own money back smh

The code 291 from November 4th is actually a good sign - it means they removed your original tax assessment of $1,365, which suggests they're finalizing adjustments in your favor. Combined with all the credit activity (766s being added then 767s removing them), it looks like they're recalculating everything based on your amendment. The March freeze was probably just routine review given the complexity of your return with SE income and multiple credits. Since you're seeing recent activity (the 291 and notice from 11/4), you should expect resolution soon - likely within the next few weeks rather than waiting until the full 20-week mark.

I've been through this same frustrating situation with ID.me and lost phone access. Here's what I learned from my experience: Start with ID.me's account recovery process first since it's usually the fastest route. Go directly to their website (not through the IRS portal) and look for "Can't access your account." You'll need to upload a clear photo of your driver's license and do a video selfie verification. The whole process took me about 3 days during non-peak season, but expect longer waits now. If that doesn't work or takes too long, the Taxpayer Assistance Center appointment is your backup plan - just know you might be waiting 2-3 weeks for an appointment this time of year. Since you mentioned having a mortgage now, getting those transcripts is definitely worth the effort to verify your interest deduction amounts are correct!

I went through this exact same situation last year when I switched phones and completely forgot to update my ID.me info beforehand. Here's what worked for me: Don't waste time trying to guess your old password - go straight to ID.me's website (not through IRS) and click "Trouble signing in?" then "I can't access my phone." You'll need to verify your identity again with a driver's license photo and do their video call verification. The whole process took about 4-5 business days for me, which was faster than I expected. Pro tip: if you're in a rush and the ID.me recovery is taking too long, you can also request transcripts by mail using Form 4506-T - takes 5-10 business days but doesn't require any online access. Since you mentioned the mortgage deductions, getting those transcripts before filing is definitely the smart move!

Sales tax is so random too! In my state clothes are tax free but only if they cost less than $175 per item. And basic groceries aren't taxed but prepared foods are. And don't get me started on digital purchases and subscription services - the rules are all over the place depending on where you live. Pro tip: keep track of all the sales tax you pay throughout the year - you can deduct either your state income tax OR your sales tax on your federal return, whichever is higher. If you make big purchases in a year like a car or major appliances, the sales tax deduction can sometimes be better!

I totally understand your frustration! This is one of those things that seems unfair until you understand how the system works. Think of it this way - income tax is like paying for your "membership" in society (funding federal programs, defense, etc.), while sales tax is more like paying for the specific services in your community each time you use them. The $43 in sales tax you paid is actually going toward local things like maintaining the roads you drove on to get to the mall, the police who keep that area safe, and the fire department that would respond if there was an emergency. It's not the same money being taxed twice - it's different taxes for different purposes. That said, there are definitely ways to be smarter about sales tax! Many states don't tax necessities like groceries and prescription drugs. And if you're buying work clothes, some states have special exemptions for uniforms or work-related clothing. You might also want to time big purchases around your state's tax-free weekends if they have them.

Has anyone calculated approximately how much tax might be owed on a forgotten W2? I'm trying to figure out if it's worth amending my return for about $2400 in forgotten wages or just waiting to see if I get a letter.

I was in almost the exact same situation two years ago - forgot a W2 from a part-time job I had early in the year for about $1,600. I was terrified when I realized my mistake after already getting my refund. Here's what I learned: the IRS WILL find it eventually. Their matching system is really good at catching these things, even for smaller amounts. I initially thought about waiting it out, but I'm so glad I didn't. I filed the 1040-X about 6 weeks after I realized my mistake. The process was actually much less painful than I expected. I ended up owing about $320 in additional taxes, plus a small penalty (around $40) and minimal interest since I caught it early. The whole amendment was processed in about 12 weeks and I just sent them a check for the difference. My advice: bite the bullet and file the amendment now. The peace of mind alone is worth it, and you'll save money compared to waiting for them to find it. Plus, being proactive shows good faith which can sometimes help with penalty reduction.

Have you checked your IRS transcript to see if there are any issues or holds? Sometimes there's a problem that needs to be resolved before they'll release the funds, even if you have a DDD. You can access your transcript online at irs.gov if you have an account.

I had the exact same issue with Cash App last year - DDD of 4/12 but didn't see the money until 4/17. It's super frustrating when you're expecting it and it doesn't show up! Since you already confirmed your 846 code with the 4/15 date on your transcript, the IRS has definitely sent the money. Cash App just processes government deposits slower than traditional banks. I'd give it until Monday (that'll be 4 full business days) before panicking. If it's still not there by then, definitely call both Cash App and the IRS. But based on my experience and what others are saying here, you should see it in the next day or two. Hang in there!