Here's what I recommend based on my experience: Step 1: Create an account on IRS.gov if you haven't already Step 2: Access your tax transcript (account transcript specifically) Step 3: Look for code 150 (tax return filed) Step 4: Look for code 846 (refund issued) - this is what you're waiting for Step 5: If you see codes 570/971, there might be a review happening This approach gives you much more detailed information than the basic "Where's My Refund" tool. I was frustrated with the lack of information until I learned how to read my transcript properly. The transcript updates more frequently and shows exactly what's happening with your return.

Fwiw, my state (CA) and fed refunds were completely diff timelines. Got state super fast (like 8 days) but fed took forever (37 days total). The WMR tool was stuck on the first bar the whole time, but my transcript had all the deets. Had a mini heart attack when I saw code 570, but turns out it was just normal processing. Nothing to do w/ state refund timing tho - totally separate systems.

I completely understand your frustration. Per Internal Revenue Manual 25.23.2, the IRS is required to verify taxpayer identity when certain risk factors are present, even if you have an IP PIN. Under the Taxpayer First Act Section 2001, they've actually increased verification requirements. As a military spouse who's gone through three PCS moves in five years, I've had to verify twice despite having an IP PIN each time. The verification is annoying but legitimate - and unfortunately common for military families due to our frequent relocations.

Happened to me last yr too. IP PIN is basically useless imho. IRS systems don't talk to each other. Left hand doesn't know what right hand is doing. Got my fed refund then got letter saying verify identity. Makes zero sense. Called 6x, got hung up on 5x. When I finally got thru, agent said it happens all the time w/ military families who move a lot. System flags address changes as suspicious even w/ IP PIN. Totally broken system.

I need to share a cautionary tale here. I verified online on February 27th (exactly 23 days ago), thought everything was fine, and waited patiently. After seeing posts like this, I called yesterday and discovered my verification had NEVER processed correctly. The agent told me that approximately 42% of online verifications since February 1st have been affected by this glitch. After verifying by phone, she told me to expect my refund within 9 business days. If I hadn't called, I might have been waiting indefinitely. The system won't notify you if your verification fails!

For anyone dealing with this issue, I created a timeline based on my experience and what I've seen from others: 1. If you verified online between January 29, 2024 and March 15, 2024, and were only asked about 2024 information, your verification likely didn't complete properly 2. After calling and completing phone verification, most people are seeing transcript updates within 2-5 days 3. Refunds are typically being issued 5-9 days after successful phone verification 4. The IRS updated their system on March 16, 2024 to fix this issue for new verifications, but they're not automatically fixing previously affected accounts Hope this helps others navigate this frustrating situation!

Is TurboTax's estimate reliable? I'm worried now. I just filed last week. Used TurboTax too. Got the same 5-day early option. Should I be concerned? Everyone's talking about transcripts. Never checked mine before. Is it really that helpful?

You should check the IRS2Go app right away! Sometimes it updates before the website does. According to the IRS Refund Status page (https://www.irs.gov/refunds), they're still processing many February returns. The 21-day normal processing time doesn't always apply during peak season. If it's been more than 21 days since you e-filed, you should definitely call them at 1-800-829-1040, but be prepared to wait a long time. Check your transcript ASAP to see if there are any hold codes!

Check your bank account, not TurboTax. TurboTax doesn't always update correctly. I filed March 2nd. My refund hit my account yesterday with no warning. WMR still shows processing. Transcripts updated last Friday. IRS doesn't follow their own timelines anymore.

In my experience with filing on March 1st for the past three tax seasons, there's a pretty consistent pattern. Last year I filed on March 1st and saw my refund exactly 17 days later. The year before was 21 days. This year I filed March 1st again and just got my deposit yesterday - so 20 days total. The community wisdom is that early March filers typically see 17-21 day processing times unless there are complications with credits or verification issues. Your state refund is definitely a good sign! I always tell friends that the transcript is your best friend during tax season - it updates way before WMR does.