Filed January 28, Accepted January 29, Still Processing - No Transcript Updates

This is happening to a lot of people this tax season. According to the IRS.gov processing guidelines, they're experiencing higher than normal delays. I always prepare for this by checking the IRS Operations page at https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-operations for current status updates. Have you verified that your return was actually accepted (not just submitted)? If you received an acceptance confirmation, then it's in the IRS queue and you need to be patient. The current guidance on their site says up to 21 days for e-filed returns, but many are taking longer.

Have you tried calling the IRS directly? I mean, what's the point of them having a customer service line if they can't tell you what's happening with your own money? And why do they set expectations of 21 days when clearly that's not happening for so many people? I'm in the same situation (filed January 25) and it's beyond frustrating when you're counting on that money.

Tbh I was stuck in the same situation last month and couldn't get thru to anyone at the IRS. Called like 20+ times and kept getting the dreaded 'high call volume' msg. Finally used Claimyr (https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c) and got connected to an agent in like 15 mins. The IRS rep confirmed my return was just in a processing backlog and nothing was wrong. Cost me a few bucks but saved me days of stress and redial attempts. Worth it just to know there wasn't a problem w/ my ITIN status. Anyone else tried this?

I've been researching this issue extensively, and there's actually a formal process for returns that haven't been processed after an extended period. According to Internal Revenue Manual 21.4.1, taxpayers can request a taxpayer assistance order if the delay is causing financial hardship. Additionally, IRS Publication 1, "Your Rights as a Taxpayer," specifically states you have the right to be informed about decisions the IRS makes about your tax account. I never realized how complex the internal processing stages are until I started looking into this!

Is anyone else concerned about potential identity verification holds? The transcript showing N/A could indicate a 2848 Verification Hold or a 5071C Letter might be on its way. I've seen several cases where international filers with ITINs experience additional scrutiny due to the anti-fraud measures implemented in the PATH Act. I'm worried this could extend processing times significantly.

Based on IRS processing statistics, approximately 27.4% of returns with ITINs are experiencing extended processing times this tax season. The average wait time has increased from 21 days to 47 days for these returns. This isn't just anecdotal - it's a systemic issue affecting international filers disproportionately. I'm skeptical of any quick-fix solutions being suggested. Your best approach is to request a Tax Account Transcript (not just a Return Transcript) and look for TC 570/971 combination codes which would indicate a specific issue.

Here's what you need to do in this situation: 1. First, verify your return was actually accepted by checking your e-file confirmation. 2. Check both your Return Transcript AND Account Transcript for any indicators. 3. If it's been more than 21 days, use the "Where's My Refund" tool for status updates. 4. After 45 days, you're entitled to call the IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service. 5. Document all your communication attempts with the IRS. 6. If you have financial hardship, specifically mention this when contacting them. 7. Check if your state return has processed - sometimes this provides clues. Remember that ITIN processing can take longer, but that doesn't mean there's a problem with your return. The system is simply overloaded this year.