According to the IRS Operations Dashboard (https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-operations), they're currently processing returns filed in early March. What's happening is normal but poorly communicated by the IRS. Your return is in what's called the "processing pipeline" but hasn't reached the "posting phase" where it appears on transcripts. You can verify this by checking your Account Transcript (not Return Transcript) where you might see a TC 971 code with no corresponding 150 code yet. This is definitive proof your return is being processed even if the main account page doesn't show it. The WMR tool pulls from the initial intake database while the account page pulls from the master file - which only updates after processing is complete.

I think I might have some relevant experience to share here. Last tax season, I filed around the same time (early March) and experienced something sort of similar. My transcript didn't show my return for about 3 weeks, but WMR did show processing. It seems like, in many cases, this is possibly just a timing issue with their systems. When I eventually got my transcript, it showed that they had actually been working on my return the whole time, even though the account page didn't reflect that. I'm a little worried that processing times might be longer this year based on what I'm seeing in this community, but your situation doesn't necessarily indicate a problem yet.

Paper returns received on February 19th, 2024 are currently running about 6-8 weeks for initial processing. Deceased taxpayer returns typically add another 2-3 weeks to that timeline. March 15th is when they usually start the first batch of manual reviews for these types of returns. April 30th is when most February-filed deceased returns complete processing. June 1st is typically when refunds are issued if no issues are found. This is all normal and expected.

I've been through this twice before, and yes, WMR does update for deceased taxpayer returns. However, in my previous experiences, I noticed it takes about twice as long as regular returns. Last time I filed one in 2022, my regular return was processed in 3 weeks while the deceased family member's return took almost 7 weeks to show up on WMR. The system works the same way, but the timeline is extended because they have additional verification procedures.

FYI - the rejected DD process is pretty standard. Bank rejects the $ within 24-48 hrs, then it goes back to IRS. They'll auto-convert to paper check w/o you needing to do anything. BUT it does add time. My roommate dealt w/ this in Feb and it took ~3 wks from DDD to getting the check. Pro tip: sign up for informed delivery from USPS so you can see when the check is coming in your daily mail preview emails!

I successfully navigated this exact situation last month! My DDD was March 8th, bank rejected it on March 9th (closed account), and I received my paper check on March 29th. Unlike dealing with amended returns which can take 16+ weeks, this process is actually pretty efficient in comparison. Just make sure your address is current with the IRS. I was worried too, but the system worked exactly as designed.

Has anyone actually gotten through to the IRS since January 29th when tax season officially started? I've been trying at least twice a week since February 15th with absolutely no luck. Is it even worth trying again before April 15th?

I was probably in a somewhat similar situation last month. Filed January 25th, accepted same day, but no updates for nearly 5 weeks. I eventually discovered my return was selected for a random review - nothing I did wrong. The IRS generally processes most returns within 21 days, but they can technically take up to 45 days without owing interest. In my experience, calling rarely speeds anything up unless there's a specific issue they need information from you to resolve.

Here's how to determine your refund delivery method after verification: 1. Access your full account transcript, not just the return transcript 2. Look for the 846 code line 3. Check for a notation after the amount that says either "DD" or "CHECK" 4. If no notation, examine the full line for your bank account number (last 4 digits) 5. If bank info appears, it's direct deposit 6. If you see "CHECK" or no bank info, expect a paper check 7. For direct confirmation, call IRS at 800-829-1040 8. Use option 2, then 1, then 3, then 2, and provide your info when prompted The system changed in late 2023 - more verified returns now keep their original delivery method.

I just went through this EXACT situation 17 days ago! Verified my identity on February 28th, got 846 code on March 2nd with date of March 6th. I received my direct deposit exactly on March 6th at 3:27am. The IRS processed exactly 4,821 verification cases that same day according to the agent I spoke with. Of those, 76% kept their original refund method (DD or check). You should have your money in exactly 6 days from now if the pattern holds!