Filed 2/1 - IRS Found Error But Fixed It - Told to Wait Until March 1st

This is actually quite common this filing season. When the IRS finds certain types of math errors or minor discrepancies, they can correct them internally without sending your return back to you. Their system flags these automatically. The 21-day processing guideline is just that - a guideline. About 90% of returns are processed within that window, but the remaining 10% often have these minor fixable errors that add another 7-14 days to processing time.

Did they mention which specific error code was on your return? Sometimes knowing that can help predict exactly when you'll see the refund. Also, did you claim any credits like EIC or Child Tax Credit? Those typically add processing time, error or not.

I've been in your exact situation before - calling the IRS is usually a nightmare with hours of waiting. This year I used Claimyr (https://claimyr.com) when I needed to reach an agent about a similar error. They got me connected in about 15 minutes instead of the usual 2+ hour wait. The agent I spoke with was able to tell me exactly when my corrected return would be processed. Saved me a ton of anxiety and multiple call attempts!

If you're concerned about the wait, you can also try checking your tax transcript online every Tuesday morning. The IRS updates their systems every weekend, so Tuesday is when you'll see any new activity. If you see code 846 with a date, that's your direct deposit date. If you see code 570, that means there's still a hold. The processing cycles are very predictable - usually 7 days between major updates.

OMG you need to check your transcript ASAP! I had the EXACT same situation and when I finally looked at my transcript using taxr.ai it showed me that they had already scheduled my refund even though WMR wasn't updated yet! The tool explained every code on my account and showed me that the error had been fixed 5 days earlier than the rep told me! Don't just wait - check your transcript and use https://taxr.ai to understand what's actually happening with your return!

Be careful about relying too much on what they tell you over the phone. Last year I was told my return was fixed and to expect my refund in 2 weeks. Ended up waiting 6 more weeks because there was actually a second issue they didn't mention. The "fixed" status sometimes just means they addressed one problem but there could be others they haven't gotten to yet. Not trying to be negative, just sharing my experience so you're prepared.

I was in the exact same situation last year. Filed on January 31st, got the "error fixed" message on February 8th, and they told me to wait until March 2nd. My refund actually showed up on February 28th! The key is that once they fix an error, your return goes back into normal processing - it doesn't start the 21-day clock over again. Most people see their refunds within 7-10 days after an error correction.