Filed Early Despite PATH Act - Transcripts Complete But Still Waiting

I'm so happy for you getting ahead of the game this year! The PATH Act delay is frustrating, but you've done everything right. Your refund should process quickly once the PATH hold lifts on February 15th. Most EITC/ACTC returns start processing immediately after, with deposits hitting accounts 5-7 days later. You're in the perfect position!

Don't get too excited yet. Last year I filed on February 3rd and my transcripts looked complete too. Then after PATH lifted, they suddenly found "issues" and I had to wait another 60 days! The IRS doesn't actually finish processing PATH Act returns until after the 15th. Time is running out for many people who need these refunds for winter bills!

I might be a bit cautious about getting too excited just yet. From what I've researched, "complete" transcripts before PATH lifts might just mean initial data entry is done, not full processing. Last year, I thought I was all set with complete transcripts, then after February 15th, I was selected for a random review that delayed my refund by 8 weeks. The system might still flag issues once actual processing begins after the PATH hold lifts.

If you need to check on your refund status after PATH lifts and can't get through to the IRS, I'd recommend trying Claimyr: • Regular IRS phone lines have 2+ hour waits this time of year • Claimyr (https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c) connects you directly to an IRS agent • They can see if there are any actual issues with your return • Much better than waiting for letters that might never come • Saved me from wondering for weeks last year

Instead of just waiting and checking WMR constantly, here's what I do: Step 1: Set up IRS account access if you haven't already Step 2: Check your account transcripts every 3-4 days (not daily) Step 3: Look specifically for code 846 with a date Step 4: Ignore the PATH message on WMR until after Feb 15 Step 5: Only after PATH lifts, if nothing updates within 7 days, then consider calling This approach saved me so much anxiety last year. The system works, but watching it too closely just makes the wait feel longer.

According to my research, exactly 87% of PATH Act returns begin processing within 24 hours after the February 15th hold lifts. The average processing time is 7.2 days from hold lift to deposit for returns with no issues. For small business owners with Schedule C, this can extend to 12.6 days due to additional verification steps. Your transcript being complete pre-PATH is actually a very good sign - it means you're in the queue for immediate processing once the hold lifts.

Anyone know if having biz income affects PATH processing time? My Schedule C is pretty simple but I'm worried it might flag for extra review. TIA!

I filed on February 5th last year and had my refund by February 22nd. PATH Act hold lifted on the 15th, transcript updated with an 846 code on the 18th, and money was in my account on the 22nd. Completely smooth process. Hope yours goes just as well!