Anyone know if they're still doing those random reviews? My sister filed in January and just got her refund yesterday after a "random review" that took 10 weeks.

Enjoy that money! Any plans for it?

Has anyone heard if there will be any changes to the filing process this year compared to last year? I'm wondering if they're implementing any new systems or if it will be similar to how it was for the 2024 filing season.

Just a warning about waiting until the last minute! Last year I thought I had plenty of time but: • One client sent a corrected 1099 in late March • Had to request a missing form from another client • My tax software crashed the day before deadline • Ended up filing an extension and still paid penalties Lesson learned: The earlier you start preparing (even if you can't file yet), the better off you'll be. Don't be me!

I went through identity verification last month. Called 800-830-5084 directly. No letter needed. Waited 47 minutes. They asked about previous addresses, loan amounts, and filing history. Verification completed in one call. Return processed 12 days later. Worth the wait.

Just to clarify something important - you do NOT need the letter to call the identity verification line. The letter just tells you that you need to verify. If you suspect you need to verify your identity (like if Where's My Refund shows no progress or you received notification about your amended return needing verification), you can proactively call 800-830-5084. They'll determine if you actually need to go through the verification process.

Have you considered why the IRS makes this process so complicated in the first place? Why should we need to navigate a labyrinth of phone trees just to get our own money back? Isn't it telling that an entire industry of workarounds has sprung up just to deal with government inefficiency? The most reliable approach I've found is to call right when they open at 7am Eastern. The queue fills up fast, though. Sometimes the system will let you request a callback instead of waiting on hold - always take that option if offered. And document everything - who you spoke with, what they said, and any reference numbers they provide. The IRS operates on documentation, so you should too.

I GOT MY REFUND REISSUED IN 3 WEEKS!!! 🎉🎉🎉 Similar situation - moved from Florida to Colorado and my check got sent back. I was panicking because I needed that money for car repairs! Here's what worked: Called using the advice above, got through (after many attempts), and specifically asked for a payment trace using Form 3911 procedures. The key was mentioning that I had already verified my new address through the online account portal AND submitted Form 8822. The agent was able to expedite the reissue because I could prove I had properly updated my address before the original check was sent. Stay persistent! It feels amazing when that new check finally arrives at the RIGHT address!

I was worried about spending money on a service too, but honestly, it saved me so much stress! The time I would have spent on hold is worth way more than what they charge. Plus, finding out early that my refund had an issue meant I could adjust my budget immediately rather than waiting weeks for a letter in the mail. When you're counting on that refund money for bills, knowing exactly what's happening is priceless. The peace of mind alone was worth it for me.

FYI - if ur DD date was 2/26 & still nothing, check transcript for TC 971 code. Sometimes they flip from DD to check w/o telling u. Also, many banks (esp Wells & BofA) holding tax refunds for 5-7 biz days this yr due to fraud concerns. TT batches usually hit accts by EOD on DD date but can take up to 5 biz days to clear banking system. Def call ur bank first, then IRS if needed.