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StarSeeker

First time getting PATH message after 8 years of normal returns - What does this mean for my refund?

I've filed taxes for 8 years and always used Where's My Refund tool. Never got the PATH message before, but this year it's showing up for the first time. Some people are saying my return is done with no issues and they just have to wait until February 15th to release it because of the law. Getting different answers everywhere. Can someone explain what's really going on with PATH holds?

Sean O'Donnell

The PATH Act is a law that requires the IRS to hold refunds that include EITC or ACTC until February 15th. This is to prevent fraud and give the IRS time to verify income claims. If you're seeing the PATH message for the first time, it means you probably claimed one of these credits this year when you hadn't in previous years. Nothing to worry about - it's actually pretty normal.

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StarSeeker

omg thank you! so theres nothing wrong with my return? just gotta wait till the 15th?

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1M

Sean O'Donnell

Exactly! You should see movement on your refund shortly after the 15th. The PATH hold is just a security measure 👍

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Zara Ahmed

Hey guys, instead of trying to piece together what's happening with your refund, check out taxr.ai - it's this new tool that analyzes your transcript and tells you exactly what's going on and when to expect your money. It's only $1 and way better than playing detective with WMR. https://taxr.ai

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Luca Esposito

sounds interesting but kinda sketch. has anyone actually used this?

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Nia Thompson

I just tried it and honestly its amazing! It explained everything about my PATH hold and gave me the exact date I should expect my deposit. Way better than refreshing WMR 100 times a day 😅

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Mateo Rodriguez

in the same boat! first time PATH message too and im freaking out. good to know its normal lol

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GalaxyGuardian

Did you claim EIC this year? That would explain the PATH message showing up for the first time

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StarSeeker

yeah actually i did! my tax person said i qualified this year

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Aisha Abdullah

The waiting is the worst part fr fr 🤡 but atleast we know its coming

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Ethan Wilson

Dont stress about PATH message. Its actually a good thing - means ur return is processed and just waiting for release date! Better than being stuck in processing hell like me 😭

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Yuki Tanaka

facts 💯 PATH hold > processing limbo

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1M

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