Your timeline is actually better than mine! Think of the IRS processing system like a highway during rush hour - everyone gets on at different times, but there are certain bottlenecks where traffic slows down. I filed on January 29th, transcript updated February 16th, and my DDD is February 23rd. It's like we were in the same processing batch. The fact that you got your DDD so quickly is a good sign - it's like getting the express lane through the IRS traffic jam.

I had almost the exact same timeline as you but with a slight twist. Filed January 31st, accepted same day, transcript blank until February 16th, then DDD of February 24th. But here's the interesting part - my state refund actually arrived before I even got the federal DDD. Isn't it strange how state processing can sometimes be faster than federal? Makes you wonder why the IRS can't streamline their process the same way some states have.

According to the IRS2Go app and IRS.gov/refunds FAQ section, PATH Act returns are currently experiencing longer processing times than in previous years. I found the IRS Refund Timetable on irs.gov/individuals/refund-timing very helpful - it specifically mentions that returns claiming EITC/ACTC may take until early March to begin processing even if filed in January. The IRS Tax Season Refund Frequently Asked Questions page also explains that transcripts won't show data until processing begins, which explains the "return not processed" message. Have you tried checking the Tax Season Refund Frequently Asked Questions page for more specific information?

Listen, I've been through this 3 years in a row now. PATH Act returns are ALWAYS delayed. Don't waste time checking daily. Set a calendar reminder for 8 weeks after your filing date and check then. That's when most PATH returns start moving. Calling won't help - the agents can't speed anything up. If you need money now, better look at other options because the IRS isn't rushing for anyone. Just how it is with these credits.

I was in almost the exact same situation last year! Had medical bills piling up and was anxiously watching my transcript daily. Filed with Credit Karma on January 29th, saw my 846 code with a February 21st date, and the money actually hit my account at 3am on February 22nd. Credit Karma took their fees and sent the rest right away. What really helped my anxiety was that I had set up text alerts with my bank for any deposits over $100, so I got a notification the moment it landed. Might be worth setting that up if your bank offers it!

Have you considered using the IRS direct deposit option instead of going through Credit Karma next year? I switched to direct deposit this year after using tax preparer bank products for years, and my refund came exactly on my 846 date with no fees taken out. Isn't it worth saving those preparation fees, especially when you need the money for medical expenses? You could still use Credit Karma to prepare your return but just opt for direct deposit to your own bank account.

Look, I know it's frustrating, but this is completely normal for returns with both marketplace forms and ID verification. The IRS systems don't talk to each other efficiently. Your return is in the system - it's just not showing up in the transcript database yet. The good news is that the WMR status change means you're moving forward. I've seen hundreds of posts like yours over the years, and they almost always resolve within a few weeks after the WMR status changes back to processing. I know it's stressful, especially when you're counting on that money for tuition, but hang in there. This is just how the system works unfortunately.

Your tax return is like a package that's been routed through multiple distribution centers. It arrived at the main facility (filed on Feb 1), then got sent to the special handling department (marketplace form), then to security verification (ID.me), and now it's back on the main processing line. The tracking system (transcript) hasn't updated yet because it's still making its way through the final sorting area, but the package tracker (WMR) shows it's moving again. I had the exact same situation last year - filed Feb 3rd, had to do marketplace form correction on Feb 10th, identity verification on Feb 17th, WMR went back to processing on Feb 25th, and transcript finally updated on March 8th. Refund arrived March 11th. So about 5 weeks from filing to refund with similar complications.

Oh come on, you're making it sound way worse than it probably is! Most of these notices are routine! I got a similar notice last year and it was just asking me to verify my identity online. Took 15 minutes to resolve and my refund came two weeks later. Let's not scare people unnecessarily!

Had this exact issue last month. Got the notice. It was identity verification. Completed it online. Return processed within 10 days. Refund arrived 3 days later. Just wait for the mail. Follow instructions. Don't stress too much.