Did you claim EITC or Additional Child Tax Credit? Those always take longer - the IRS by law can't release those refunds before mid-February regardless of when you filed.

I use it every year and find it pretty accurate. "Still processing" usually means your return is in the queue but hasn't been reviewed yet. Don't worry too much unless it's been more than 21 days since you e-filed.

The app just pulls the same data as the Where's My Refund tool on the website. If you're seeing "still processing" after 2 weeks, it might be worth calling the IRS. Sometimes there are verification issues they need to resolve but they don't always notify you proactively.

That's a great point! I hadn't even thought about state-specific incentives. I'm in Pennsylvania - do you know if they have similar programs or where I should look to find this information?

Pennsylvania actually has several programs! Check out the PA Department of Environmental Protection website - they offer rebates for energy efficient appliances and heating systems through their PA Home Energy Program. Also look at your utility company's website as many PA utilities offer additional rebates. The PA Housing Finance Agency also has some programs for new homeowners making improvements. The state-level stuff isn't on your tax return directly but comes as separate rebates or credits that can be substantial. Some municipalities in PA also have property tax reductions for certain improvements, so check your local government website too!

I used TurboTax last year after buying my first house. It asks about mortgage interest and property taxes really clearly, but for energy credits you have to specifically look for those sections - they don't always come up automatically in their interview process. I almost missed the credit for my energy efficient windows until I specifically searched for it. Make sure you have manufacturer certifications for any energy efficient improvements. TurboTax has a section for these credits but you need to know to look for them under "Credits & Deductions" and then "Home Energy Credits.

I hadn't really considered a reverse mortgage. Are the fees for those reasonable? I've heard mixed things about them over the years. Also, wouldn't I need to be purchasing my new home before I could get a reverse mortgage on it? Since I don't currently own a property in my new town yet.

The fees can be substantial - typically 2-5% of the home's value. But compared to the tax hit from a large IRA withdrawal, it might still be advantageous. There actually is a specific type called a HECM for Purchase that lets you buy a new home with a reverse mortgage. You make a down payment (usually around 50-60% of the purchase price) and the reverse mortgage covers the rest. You'd never have mortgage payments, though you'd still be responsible for taxes, insurance, and maintenance.

A 1031 exchange wouldn't work if they're planning to live in the new property as their primary residence. The replacement property in a 1031 exchange must be used for business or investment purposes.

Shoot I didn't even think about that! I was planning to go with Schwab. Does anyone know how long they typically take to process?

With Schwab, you're cutting it close but might still be okay. Last I checked, they can typically establish a solo 401k within 1-2 business days if all your paperwork is complete and accurate. I'd recommend calling them directly ASAP though - their customer service can tell you exactly what you need and might even be able to expedite the process if you explain the deadline situation. One important thing: make sure you have your EIN ready! If you don't already have an Employer Identification Number from the IRS for your business, you'll need that before opening a solo 401k. That's another process that could add time.

This is great information but I'm still a bit confused. So if I just get the paperwork submitted tonight, I'm good? And then I can actually fund it later? Does the solo 401k need to be with the same bank where I have my business checking account?

Thanks for sharing your experience! How complicated was it to file the amendment? I've never done one before and I'm worried I'll mess it up somehow.

Filing the amendment through TurboTax was pretty straightforward. Since you already filed with them, you just log in, choose the option to amend your 2023 return, and follow the prompts. It'll ask what you're changing, and you'd select "income" and then add the 1099-R information. The system recalculates everything automatically. Just review the changes carefully before submitting. If your situation is simple like mine was (just adding a missed form), it shouldn't take more than 30-45 minutes. The hardest part is waiting for processing - paper amendments can take 6+ months to process currently.

Not the OP, but I think that's what they meant by "Form G" - they were referring to the distribution code in box 7. That's super important for determining the tax treatment.

You're right - it does have code G in box 7. I just double-checked the form. Does that change anything about how I should handle this?