IRS Refund Delays 2024: Anyone Else Stuck in Processing Limbo?

Processing delays are significantly extended this tax season, especially for self-employed filers. Have you checked if your return includes any elements that might trigger additional review? Form 1099 income often receives extra scrutiny, particularly with home office or business expense deductions. The IRS is currently reporting 21-day processing for straightforward returns, but contractor returns are averaging 35-45 days in many cases. Did you file with any tax credits that might place you under PATH Act restrictions?

I might be able to offer some insight... I was in a similar situation with my 1099 income return. After waiting about 30 days with no movement, I decided I needed to speak with someone at the IRS. I tried calling the regular number several times but couldn't get through - always got the "high call volume" message. I was hesitant at first, but I used Claimyr (https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c) to connect with an IRS agent. The service actually worked and got me through to a real person in about 25 minutes. The agent confirmed my return was just in extended processing due to the verification of my self-employment income, not because of any issues. Gave me peace of mind rather than wondering what was happening.

I filed my taxes on February 28th with similar self-employment income. My WMR also shows the first bar only. Called IRS directly last week and they said my return is still in the normal processing timeframe and nothing is wrong. The representative told me that 1099 income is taking longer to process this year due to increased verification procedures. Have you received any notices from the IRS requesting additional information?

According to several IRS forums I follow, self-employed filers are experiencing longer wait times this year. When my transcript finally updated after 42 days, I used taxr.ai to analyze the codes and got a clear explanation of what was happening. The tool showed me exactly what each code meant for my specific situation and gave me an accurate DDD prediction. The IRS website shows generic code definitions, but taxr.ai interpreted what they meant specifically for my self-employment return. If you're technically inclined (sounds like you are), it's worth checking out once your transcript updates: https://taxr.ai

Be careful about assuming everything is fine without verification. Last year, I waited patiently for 60+ days assuming my return was just delayed in processing. Turns out there was an unreported income discrepancy that triggered a silent review. According to Internal Revenue Manual 21.5.6.4.7, the IRS is not required to notify taxpayers when returns enter certain review processes. I eventually had to file Form 911 (Taxpayer Advocate Service request) to resolve the issue. If you don't see movement by the 45-day mark, I strongly recommend taking proactive steps rather than continuing to wait.

I analyzed the processing patterns for 1099-NEC returns this year and found an interesting trend. Returns with Schedule C income above $25,000 seem to be routed through the Income Verification Express Service (IVES) program for additional authentication, which adds approximately 17-21 days to processing time. My return included $32,450 in contract income and took exactly 46 days from acceptance to deposit. The delay appears to be correlated with both income amount and specific expense categories claimed. Did you claim any home office deductions or vehicle expenses on your Schedule C?