Your timeline is actually faster than the average I'm seeing for EITC/CTC filers this year. Compared to 2022 when average wait times were 65+ days, or 2023 when they averaged around 45 days, your 39-day turnaround is relatively efficient. The IRS has been gradually improving their processing systems, though they're still not back to pre-pandemic speeds when EITC/CTC returns typically processed in 21-28 days.

Just a heads-up for anyone still waiting - the IRS is processing returns in batches this year based on filing date and complexity. If you filed with similar credits around Jan 21-25, you should see updates very soon. The current batch being processed includes those filed Jan 20-25 with refundable credits. Next batch will likely be Jan 26-31 filers.

According to the IRS.gov processing guidelines, EITC claims filed in 2024 are taking 21-45 days minimum. I filed on February 3rd with EITC and just got my deposit yesterday. The Where's My Refund tool never updated properly, but my transcript showed the 846 code (refund issued) about 5 days before the money arrived. Don't rely on WMR - the transcript is your best source of accurate information.

The IRS utilizes a batch processing system for EITC verification known as the Return Integrity Verification Operation (RIVO). An alternative approach is to request a Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) intervention if your military relocation qualifies as a hardship situation. Form 911 can be submitted to request expedited processing. The TAS can sometimes override normal processing timelines when there's a demonstrable need, which your PCS orders might satisfy.

I had almost the exact same thing happen to me last year! I filed in January and then got a surprise 1099-G in February. I panicked thinking I'd get in trouble with the IRS. I tried for hours to get TurboTax to let me amend, but kept hitting a wall. Called their customer service and they told me their amendment feature wouldn't be available until April. I was shocked that such a big company would have this limitation! Ended up waiting until May to file the amendment and everything worked out fine. The IRS processed it without any issues or penalties.

Filing taxes with missing forms is like trying to bake a cake when you don't have all the ingredients - you know it's not going to turn out right! I had this identical situation in 2023. TurboTax wouldn't let me amend until April 20th. I marked my calendar, came back on that date, and the amendment option was magically available. Took about 15 minutes to add the 1099-G and resubmit. Received confirmation from the IRS within 3 days that they received my amendment, and my adjusted refund (which was smaller, of course) arrived about 12 weeks later. Smooth sailing once the system allowed it!

Have you considered calling the Taxpayer Advocate Service? They can sometimes help when you're stuck in review without clear information. Did the agent give you any specific timeframe besides "end of March"? Was there any mention of what might have triggered the review in the first place? In my experience, it's better to be proactive rather than just waiting. Keep detailed notes of every conversation including the ID number of any IRS employee you speak with. This can be incredibly helpful if you need to reference previous discussions.

Let me share a cautionary tale from 2022 that might prepare you for what could happen. I was told the same thing - "no issues, just call back in a few weeks." But when I did call back? They had no record of my previous conversation and claimed I needed to submit additional documentation that was never mentioned before. Did they provide you with a case number or confirmation of your review status? Without that, you're at the mercy of whoever answers the phone next time. The review process took 4 months in total, and I had to provide the same information three separate times to different departments. My refund was significantly delayed, and I had to adjust financial plans accordingly.

I was in pending status for almost a week, but my payment actually came through yesterday! I was so relieved. The money went straight to my daughter's summer camp fees. Has anyone noticed if updating your direct deposit information affects the timing? I updated mine right before the July payment and wonder if that's what caused the delay?

FYI for everyone - the CTC portal usually updates overnight between 12am-3am EST. So if you're checking multiple times during the day, you prob won't see changes. Also, bank processing times vary HUGELY. My credit union posts pending deposits immediately, but my husband's big bank holds them for 24hrs even tho they can see them. Most ppl I know w/ pending status got their $$ within 5 biz days. If you're still waiting after a week, def try to contact IRS bc something else might be going on w/ your account.