Did you receive any email confirmation when your advance was denied? Did it specifically mention how the fees would be refunded? What date did you file and when was the advance officially denied?

What if I told you this happens every single year and is practically built into their business model? How many people give up after calling a few times and just write off the $39-89 in fees? Millions. Now multiply that by even a small percentage of filers who don't pursue refunds aggressively. It's a substantial amount of money they're holding onto for weeks or months. I've been preparing taxes professionally for 8 years and always advise clients against these advance products for this exact reason. The convenience rarely outweighs the headaches when anything goes wrong - and something goes wrong for about 15-20% of applicants based on what I've seen.

The transcript behavior you're describing is specifically related to the IRS Master File processing system. When your return moves between different processing stages, the transcript availability temporarily changes. The N/A status for 4 consecutive days may indicate your return has moved to the final verification stage before refund approval. This is typically a positive sign that processing is nearing completion rather than an indication of problems.

I remember my first time dealing with this last year - drove me absolutely crazy! I was checking WMR hourly and watching my transcript like it was a suspense movie. What I learned after three tax seasons of this: the IRS systems are incredibly old and don't talk to each other well. My transcript did the exact same dance - N/A, then star, then back to N/A for almost a week. Then suddenly everything appeared at once and my refund hit 3 days later. The waiting is the hardest part, but this pattern is actually pretty normal.

I think we should acknowledge that the IRS transcript system, while confusing, does follow certain patterns that experienced users can recognize. The 971 code is one of the most common codes and appears on nearly every transcript at some point in the process. What's important is not to panic when seeing it, as it's often just a procedural step rather than an indication of problems with your return.

Have you considered that the 971 might actually be good news? Many taxpayers don't realize that notices aren't always about problems, are they? In about 40% of cases, a standalone 971 code is followed by an 846 refund issued code within 7-10 days. Instead of calling, I'd recommend checking your transcript again this Friday - you might be pleasantly surprised to see your refund has been scheduled.

Be careful with H&R Block status updates. Mine showed "approved" for weeks. Called IRS eventually. Had an error code. Needed to verify identity. Lost three weeks because I trusted the H&R Block tracker. Always check directly with IRS.

H&R Block filer here with timeline: • Filed: Feb 8 • Accepted: Feb 8 • WMR showed first bar only for 3 weeks • Transcript updated Mar 1 with 570 code • Called IRS Mar 5 - told to wait • Refund deposited Mar 12 Need to check ASAP if you're getting delayed! Could be simple verification or could be something that needs your action!

I went through this exact situation two weeks ago. Here's what I learned: First, the N/A transcript means your return is in the pre-processing queue. Second, returns with Child Tax Credit are subject to additional verification under the PATH Act. Third, the IRS is experiencing higher than normal verification delays this year. Fourth, most returns with this status are resolved within 45-60 days from filing. Fifth, calling before that timeframe rarely provides additional information. I understand how frustrating this waiting period is, especially when you're counting on that money.

File IRS Form 911 immediately! Per Internal Revenue Manual 13.1.7.2, Taxpayer Advocate Service intervention is warranted after 30 days of processing delay if financial hardship exists. Document any expenses dependent on refund funds. Submit via fax to your local TAS office by COB tomorrow. Include all filing documentation. Reference IRC Section 6402 regarding timely processing requirements. Do not wait for automated systems to update! TAS can expedite processing in 5-7 business days in hardship cases.