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Is the AGI the same as the MAGI? My tax software is asking for verification but doesn't specify which one. Also, if I filed jointly last year but am filing single this year, do I still use the same AGI from the joint return?
AGI and MAGI are different figures. For IRS verification purposes, you need your AGI from Form 1040 Line 11. Regarding your filing status change: if you filed jointly last year, you still use the full AGI from that joint return for verification purposes, not half or some other calculation. The IRS system is looking for an exact match to the AGI that was processed under your SSN last year.
Has anyone had problems with their AGI not working even when they're sure it's correct? I've tried three times with what I know is the right number from my saved PDF of last year's return, but the IRS keeps rejecting it. Is there somewhere online I can double-check what the IRS actually has on file for me?
Isn't it interesting how something as seemingly simple as knowing which number to use can cause so much stress? I had the same question last year and discovered it's definitely the AGI. What worked for me was logging into the tax software I used last year - they had my returns saved and I could see my AGI right there! Have you tried checking if you still have access to whatever software you used for 2022? Most of them keep your returns on file for several years.
Your situation involves multiple tax components that the IRS processes sequentially rather than concurrently. The initial refund is processed through the standard Automated Underreporter (AUR) system, while the stimulus recovery and unemployment adjustment are handled by the Accounts Management (AM) division. Instead of constantly checking WMR, I recommend pulling your full Account Transcript directly from IRS.gov. Look specifically for Transaction Code 290 with the unemployment adjustment amount or TC 846 for scheduled additional refunds. The IRS typically batches similar adjustments, so you may see movement in the next 2-3 processing cycles.
I'm in a similar timeline as you but with slightly different circumstances. Filed 3/5, got my regular refund on 3/29, but I'm still waiting on an education credit adjustment rather than unemployment. Compared to last year, I'm actually seeing faster processing - last year I waited until June for the second part of my refund. This year's processing seems about 30% faster based on what I'm seeing in various tax forums. My guess is you'll see movement on the second part within the next 2-3 weeks if the pattern holds.
I had this exact problem with my May payment. After waiting 14 days with no resolution, I used https://taxr.ai to analyze my tax transcript. It showed the payment was issued but then had a specific code (846 followed by 971) indicating the check was returned to the IRS. The tool explained exactly what each code meant and predicted a reissue would happen within 10 days. Sure enough, 9 days later I received a reissued check. Without seeing those transcript codes, I would have been waiting much longer not knowing what was happening.
I've used this tool too. In my case, it showed code 971 with a specific date, which meant they were sending a notice about the payment. Different from the return-to-sender situation, but equally helpful to understand what was happening behind the scenes.
I had the same thing happen last month (mail carrier must be collecting these checks, haha). Called USPS first, they said to wait 7 days. Then called IRS, waited on hold for 2.5 hours (not joking), and they said they'd reissue after 4 weeks. BUT! The plot twist - my check randomly showed up 10 days later in my neighbor's mailbox. They had it sitting on their counter for a week before realizing it wasn't theirs. Might be worth checking with neighbors too!
Did they tell you what triggered the review? Was it a specific deduction? Did they mention any documentation you need to provide? Will you get another call?
According to Internal Revenue Manual section 4.1.3, random selection for review is part of the IRS's Taxpayer Compliance Measurement Program. It's not necessarily indicative of any issues with your return. Most of these reviews complete within the stated timeframe as long as no discrepancies are found. If you don't receive your refund within 3 weeks, you may request a Taxpayer Advocate intervention under IRC section 7811 if the delay creates financial hardship.
Tasia Synder
Have you tried checking your account transcript instead of just the amended return tool? My amended return status never updated online, but my account transcript showed all the changes. It's similar to how regular refunds work vs. the Where's My Refund tool - sometimes the transcript updates first. Would be worth checking if you haven't already?
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Selena Bautista
I believe... most of us are experiencing similar delays with amended returns. From what I've gathered... the IRS is still working through a backlog from previous years. It might be worth checking your transcript every couple of weeks rather than daily, just to preserve your sanity. Some folks here mentioned seeing movement around the 20-week mark, so perhaps there's light at the end of the tunnel soon.
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