Have you tried checking your tax transcript instead? I was in a similar situation last month and discovered my transcript had updated even though WMR hadn't changed. I logged into the IRS website on March 28th, downloaded my account transcript, and found out they had adjusted my refund amount slightly and were processing it. Three days later, the money appeared in my account! The transcript showed codes that explained exactly what was happening, while WMR was still stuck on that generic message.

The blank refund field combined with the Head of Household status often indicates they're verifying your eligibility for that filing status. I went through this last year when I filed on April 2nd. It's a very common verification process, especially if this is your first time using that filing status. The good news is that once they complete verification, things move quickly. In my case, it took exactly 35 days from filing to refund, and the WMR tool updated only 48 hours before the deposit hit my account.

This is like being stuck in tax purgatory - not your fault but you're the one who has to fix it. I was in a similar boat last year when my uncle's "tax guy" filed for me without my final approval. What I learned is that the verification process is like a locked door, but you can still get an amended return through a different door once you have the key (your transcript). The IRS won't just throw out your whole tax situation because of this preparer problem - they actually have processes for this exact scenario.

Last April, my neighbor's "tax lady" did this exact thing to me. Filed without my approval, then ghosted me when verification notices came. I called the IRS verification line at 800-830-5084, explained the situation, and asked for a 45-day extension on the verification deadline. They granted it, which gave me time to get my W-2s and 1099s from my employers directly. I then went to a legitimate tax professional who helped me respond to the verification AND file an amended return simultaneously. The verification actually cleared first, then the amendment processed about 8 weeks later. Refund was delayed but I did get it eventually.

I don't think this advice about "just wait" is helpful. The PATH Act is frustrating enough without vague timelines. • The IRS is REQUIRED to hold refunds with certain credits until Feb 15 • They often take additional time after that date for "processing" • Many returns with PATH messages have NO issues but still get delayed • Some returns DO have issues but you won't know without checking transcripts • The WMR tool is notoriously unhelpful during this period If you filed 1/30, you should have at least seen transcript updates by now.

According to the official IRS refund timeline at IRS.gov/refunds, most tax returns are processed within 21 days. The PATH Act creates an exception for returns with certain credits, but they should still be actively processing your return. The IRS's "Where's My Refund" tool isn't always accurate during the PATH delay period - that's just how their system works. I've had returns with the PATH message that processed without any issues after the holding period ended.

I was in your exact situation last year! I followed these steps to break free from TurboTax: 1. First, I went to the official IRS Free File page (not through Google, which often leads to ads) 2. I checked which options were available for my income level 3. I chose FreeTaxUSA after researching reviews 4. I gathered all my tax documents before starting 5. I created an account and followed their step-by-step process 6. I filed my federal return completely free 7. I paid only $14.99 for my state return 8. I received my refund directly from the Treasury, not through SBTPG The interface wasn't as polished as TurboTax, but it worked perfectly and saved me $185! I was a bit worried about switching after using TurboTax for 7 years, but it was actually easier than I expected.

Has anyone here tried the IRS Direct File pilot program that launched on January 29, 2024? I'm curious if they're planning to expand it beyond the initial 12 states for the 2025 filing season. Also wondering about Cash App Taxes - I've heard it's completely free for both federal and state, but I'm hesitant to trust a financial app with my tax information. Anyone have experience with their security practices?

I'm currently on day 22 of waiting after verification. My transcript shows code 971 dated 02/22/2024 and code 570 dated 02/29/2024. I received my verification letter exactly 11 days after filing. Completed verification online immediately. WMR still shows "being processed" with no bars. Anyone know exactly how many more days until I might see movement?

You might want to consider requesting a Taxpayer Advocate if this drags on past 21 days from verification. Call 877-777-4778 to request TAS assistance. They can often expedite cases where there's financial hardship or when normal IRS channels aren't resolving the issue. Document everything - dates of filing, rejection codes, when you received notifications, etc. This creates a clear timeline if you need to escalate. The verification process should be completed within 9 weeks of filing according to current IRS guidelines.