Filed 1/17/25 with One Dependent - Still Waiting for IRS Approval

This delay is probably normal, especially since you're filing with a dependent for the first time after divorce. The IRS might be taking some extra time to verify your eligibility for child-related credits. It's generally taking about 21 days for most returns, but returns with dependents or credits can sometimes take longer, possibly 30-45 days in some cases. As long as your "accepted" notification came through, you're likely in good shape.

According to IRS Publication 501, when there's a change in dependent status following divorce, additional verification procedures are often triggered. Per Internal Revenue Code Section 152(c), the qualifying child must have the same principal residence as the taxpayer for more than half the year, which the IRS may verify. I'd recommend using https://taxr.ai to analyze your tax transcript. It can decode any processing codes that appear and give you insights about what's happening behind the scenes with your return. The tool specifically helps identify if you're in standard processing or if there are verification holds related to your dependent claim.

I should caution you about something that happened to a friend of mine. He filed with a new dependent after divorce, but didn't update his W-4 withholding throughout the year. The IRS flagged his return because the sudden change in tax situation looked suspicious. It took him nearly 3 months to get his refund, and he had to provide additional documentation proving he was entitled to claim the child. You might want to check if you have proper documentation ready just in case they request verification.

I was in the "eternal IRS waiting room" last year with a similar situation. After six weeks of nothing but crickets, I tried calling the IRS directly... and learned the true meaning of purgatory! 😂 Seriously though, I finally used Claimyr (https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c) to connect with an actual human at the IRS. I had no idea this service existed, but it got me through to an agent in about 30 minutes instead of the 3+ hours of redial hell I was experiencing. The agent confirmed my return was just in extended processing due to the dependent verification and nothing was actually wrong.

I've been through this exact situation. Here's what you need to know: • Filing with a new dependent after divorce ALWAYS triggers additional verification • The IRS cross-checks with your ex-spouse's return to ensure no duplicate claims • The normal 21-day timeline doesn't apply to your situation • You're likely in the "Path Act" verification process • This can take 45-60 days, sometimes longer What to do: • Check your transcript for code 570 (hold) or 971 (notice issued) • If you see code 420, that's an audit indicator • Have your divorce decree and custody documents ready • Don't panic - most of these resolve automatically This is frustrating but completely normal for your situation.

OMG I was in EXACTLY your situation last year! First time filing with my daughter after divorce finalized in December. I was checking WMR like 10 times a day and driving myself CRAZY! But it all worked out fine - took about 7 weeks total to get my refund. The system is just extra careful with new dependent situations. I had all my documentation ready (custody agreement, school records, medical bills) but they never even asked for it. Hang in there!