Filed Federal Return on 2/6 - Got State Refund but WMR Shows No Updates

This is actually quite common during peak filing season. The IRS and state tax authorities operate on completely different processing systems and timelines. The IRS is currently experiencing a backlog of approximately 8.7 million unprocessed returns according to their latest operational status update. Your federal refund is likely in the verification queue, especially since you filed with 1099 income which typically triggers additional scrutiny under the AUR (Automated Underreporter) program. The lack of WMR updates indicates your return hasn't yet reached the refund approval stage in the Master File processing system.

You should try checking your tax transcript instead of relying on WMR. I was in the exact same situation - filed Feb 3rd, got my state refund two weeks ago, and WMR showed absolutely nothing. When I pulled my Account Transcript from the IRS website, I could see my return was actually being processed with various codes like 570 and 971. WMR is notoriously unreliable this year - many people are getting their refunds without WMR ever updating beyond "return received."

In my experience, state returns almost always process faster than federal returns, especially for those of us with 1099 income. Last year, I filed on February 8th and received my state refund on February 17th, but my federal refund didn't arrive until March 22nd. The IRS seems to be processing returns somewhat faster this year, but there are still significant delays for certain types of returns. You might want to check your account transcript soon, as it could potentially show processing activity that WMR doesn't display.

I filed on February 2nd and was in the exact same situation as you. WMR showed nothing for weeks while my state refund came through quickly. I spent 3 days trying to reach someone at the IRS (calling on February 28th, March 1st, and March 4th). After waiting on hold for hours each time and getting disconnected, I finally tried Claimyr (https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c) on March 5th. They got me connected to an IRS agent in about 15 minutes who confirmed my return was just in normal processing with no issues. The agent said returns with 1099 income filed in early February were taking 4-6 weeks to process this year.

Have you checked your IRS account online? WMR only shows 3 basic stages, but your online account might show more detailed information. In my case, WMR showed nothing for exactly 31 days after filing, then suddenly updated to approved with a direct deposit date. The key thing to watch for is the 21-day mark - if you're beyond 21 days from acceptance date (which would be February 27th for you), you're technically eligible to call the IRS directly about your refund status. I'm concerned that with the PATH Act verification procedures, some 1099 returns are being held for additional review without notification.

I've been tracking refund patterns this tax season, and here's what I've observed: • State refunds typically process in 7-14 days • Federal refunds with W-2 only: 14-21 days on average • Federal refunds with 1099 income: 21-35 days on average • Federal refunds with both credits and 1099 income: 30-45 days The fact that you've received your state refund is actually a good sign. It confirms your banking information is correct and that there are no major issues with your filing. The IRS is just slower, especially with 1099 income that requires additional verification steps. I'd give it another week before getting concerned.