Anyone Get Their Refund Yet Using TurboTax Free Edition?

I've used TurboTax free edition for the past three tax seasons, and I'm noticing longer processing times this year compared to previous years. Last year my refund came in 9 days, but this year I'm at 21 days and still waiting. The filing method (free vs. paid) shouldn't technically affect processing time, but I'm concerned there might be some internal prioritization happening. Have you checked your transcript or WMR status?

I was probably in the same situation as you a couple weeks ago, waiting and wondering. I *think* the free version might possibly be in the same processing queue as everyone else, but when I couldn't get answers, I finally used Claimyr to reach an IRS agent (https://www.claimyr.com). It was honestly worth it because I found out there was actually a small discrepancy they needed to verify. Maybe worth a try if you're really needing that investment money soon?

Compared to other filing methods, TurboTax Free shouldn't be processed any differently. I've seen Credit Karma Tax and FreeTaxUSA users reporting similar delays this season. The key factor right now is checking for PATH Act holds if you claimed certain credits. You need to act quickly if you want that money for investments - try requesting your tax transcript online instead of relying on WMR.

According to IRS Publication 5344, the processing time for e-filed returns should be the same regardless of which software or version you used to file. Per IRS regulations, all electronically submitted returns enter the same processing queue. The current statistics show 91% of refunds are issued within 21 days. However, returns filed after February 15th with refundable credits like EITC or ACTC are subject to additional verification under IRC Section 32(m) which can extend processing times.

I'm a bit worried about the delay too. Been waiting 18 days on my TurboTax Free return. It's like watching paint dry, but with more anxiety! 😂 I finally checked my transcript using taxr.ai (https://www.taxr.ai) and it explained exactly what was happening with my return - turns out I had a 570 code I didn't understand. The tool decoded everything and gave me a much clearer timeline. Saved me from pulling out what little hair I have left!

I filed with TurboTax Free on February 3rd and got my refund on February 18th. Here's what I did step-by-step: 1. Filed electronically using TurboTax Free 2. Verified my return was accepted (not just submitted) 3. Checked WMR every 2-3 days 4. Saw the progress bar move to approved on day 12 5. Received direct deposit on day 15 I was surprised by how many verification steps the IRS seemed to add this year! My return was super simple too - just W-2 income, standard deduction, no credits.

I filed on January 29, 2024 using TurboTax Free and received my refund on February 12, 2024 - exactly 14 days later. My friend filed on February 15, 2024 with the paid version and is still waiting. I don't think the free vs. paid version makes any difference in processing time. The IRS doesn't even know which version you used since the data format is identical.