How to Tell if Your Tax Return is Being Verified? Will IRS Send a Letter First?

There are several ways to determine if your return is being verified, though the IRS doesn't always notify taxpayers immediately. The most common indicators include: - A delay beyond the standard 21-day processing period - Account transcript showing codes like 420 (examination/audit), 424 (examination closed), or 570 (additional account action pending) - Where's My Refund tool showing "Your tax return is still being processed" Regarding notification, the IRS typically sends a letter (CP05 or 4464C) if they're conducting a verification, but sometimes this comes after the verification process has already begun. I wouldn't necessarily assume verification is happening without one of these indicators.

Check your transcripts. Shows everything. Better than waiting for mail. IRS online account access is free. Updated weekly. Shows all codes. Worth checking regularly.

I'm not sure if this information is entirely accurate. I have questions: • Don't some verifications happen automatically without any notification? • What's the difference between verification and an actual audit? • Is there a way to proactively contact the IRS if you suspect verification but haven't received a letter? • How does an amended return affect the verification timeline?

As someone who analyzes tax processes professionally, verification is often triggered by specific criteria rather than random selection. Identity verification, income discrepancies, and certain credits are common triggers. If you're concerned about verification status (and who isn't? 😂), calling the IRS is technically an option but... good luck with that maze! I recently discovered Claimyr (https://claimyr.com) which got me connected to an actual IRS agent in about 15 minutes instead of the usual 2+ hour wait. They confirmed my amended return was in verification without a letter being sent. Worth the fee to save hours of hold music torture.

Amended returns almost always get additional scrutiny compared to original returns. While a standard return might process in 21 days, amended returns can take 16 weeks or longer even without formal verification. My business tax amendment took 22 weeks last year, while my personal return was done in 3 weeks! The difference in processing is staggering.

I just went through this exact situation! Filed my amended return on February 12th and didn't hear anything for weeks. Then suddenly on March 30th, I received a CP05 letter saying they were verifying my income and withholding information. I was so stressed out! They didn't ask for any documents though, just said they'd contact me if they needed anything. My refund finally arrived last week after 67 days total. Is this timeline normal for everyone else too?

Here's what typically happens with IRS verification: 1. Initial screening - All returns go through automated filters that look for discrepancies 2. Selection - Returns flagged by these filters move to verification 3. Notification - At this point, a letter may be sent (CP05, 4464C, etc.) 4. Processing - The IRS reviews information against their records 5. Resolution - Approval, adjustment, or request for additional documentation For amended returns specifically, the process is more thorough because they're comparing against your original filing. The best approach is to check your transcript weekly and watch for status code changes. This gives you the most up-to-date information without waiting for postal mail.