There's an important distinction to make here: Transaction Code 971 simply indicates a notice was generated, but it doesn't specify which type. According to IRS Internal Revenue Manual 21.5.6.4.35.1, notices can take 7-10 business days to arrive after the date shown on the transcript. Additionally, if you've moved in the past year or filed with a different address than previous returns, this could further delay delivery. The absence of the notice in your online account is common, as the IRS digital systems often lag behind their paper-based processes by several business days.

Have we collectively considered how inefficient this system really is? In 2024, we're still waiting for paper letters that may or may not arrive, with codes that may or may not tell us what's happening with our money? The community wisdom here is clear: don't panic about 971 codes, but do be proactive. Check for companion codes on your transcript. Sign up for Informed Delivery. Make sure your address is current with the IRS. And perhaps most importantly, document everything. When did the code appear? What other codes appeared with it? This documentation becomes valuable if you need to prove timelines later.

I was in your friend's shoes three years in a row - tax time was just disappointment time for me 😂 (not really funny when you're counting on that money though). Finally got it sorted last year and actually received my full refund this February! The key was finding out it was an old state tax debt from when I moved between states. I set up a payment plan with my former state's revenue department, made consistent payments for 6 months, and then requested they release me from the offset program. Tell your friend not to give up - it feels amazing to finally break the cycle and actually get your refund!

I've helped several family members through this exact situation. Here's my experience with the process: 1. The TOP hotline will only give basic information - which agency has the debt and how much 2. Each type of debt has different resolution options: - Federal student loans: rehabilitation programs or consolidation - Child support: must work with state child support agency - State taxes: contact that state's department of revenue - Federal taxes: IRS payment plans or Offer in Compromise 3. Some debts can be disputed if they're incorrect 4. Once arrangements are made, get written confirmation that the debt holder will remove the offset It takes persistence but is absolutely resolvable. The worst thing your friend can do is ignore it, as interest and penalties often continue to accrue.

Be extremely careful about how you submit your W2! Last year my sister faxed her W2 to what she thought was the right department, but it wasn't properly routed to her case. Her refund was delayed for 5 months, and she had to start the verification process all over again in June. Did your tax preparer specifically tell you which form or notice number you received? Was it a CP05, CP75, or something else? Have you checked your online account at IRS.gov to see if there's a specific notice?

I successfully resolved this exact issue last month! (Tax season: where the odds are never in your favor, lol.) I asked my tax preparer for the specific notice number, called the IRS using the number on that notice, and they provided the exact fax number for my case. I sent my W2 with a copy of the notice and received confirmation of processing within 10 days. My refund was deposited exactly 16 days after faxing the documents. Make sure you get a fax confirmation page and keep it until your refund arrives!

You might want to consider FreeTaxUSA as a possible middle ground. They generally charge around $15 for state filing, but federal filing with Schedule C is completely free. Their interface is perhaps a bit more comprehensive than Cash App Tax, though admittedly not quite as polished as H&R Block. Many users find their guidance for self-employment income to be reasonably thorough, especially if you're somewhat familiar with the basic principles of business expense deductions.

I compared multiple platforms for my DoorDash income ($18K last year). Here's what I found: • Cash App Tax: Free but confusing UI for business expenses • H&R Block: $89.99 but caught all deductions • TurboTax: $119 and pushy upsells • FreeTaxUSA: $15 (state only) with decent guidance The Cash App interface literally asked me ONE question about mileage while H&R Block had a comprehensive section covering everything from hot bags to phone mounts. Ended up with $1,200 more in deductions with H&R Block.

I believe there might be a slight misunderstanding about how DDDs work. The date shown on the transcript is when the IRS releases the payment to the Treasury Department. The Treasury then initiates the ACH transfer to your friend's bank. Her bank may then have its own processing time. This multi-step process typically takes 1-3 business days, though it can sometimes be completed same-day. It's probably still in process.

Is this the first time your friend has received a tax refund via direct deposit to this particular account? I'm wondering if there could be an issue with the account information. Has she double-checked that the last four digits of the account on her tax return match her actual account?