IRS holding 2024 refund due to unprocessed 2019 return - need advice on getting status update

Ugh, the IRS is such a nightmare to deal with. I've been in the same boat before. Here's a template letter you could use: Subject: Request for Update on 2019 Tax Return Processing Dear IRS, I'm writing to ask about my 2019 tax return that I recently submitted. My 2024 refund is currently on hold because of this. Could you please confirm you received it and give me any updates? If you need more info or documents, just let me know. Thanks for your help, [Your Name] [Your Contact Info] Hope this helps!

Have you tried calling them? Sometimes you can get more info that way than waiting for a response to a letter.

I found a method to get someone on the phone. I used this site's (claimyr.com) calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to my phone. It does cost $20, but it works. Here's a video about it: https://youtu.be/Jc9x-gysK0

Have you checked the 'Where's My Refund' tool on the IRS website? Sometimes that can give you basic status updates.

This whole system is so broken. Why should we have to jump through hoops just to get info about OUR money? 😤

I had a similar issue last year. Turns out there was a discrepancy in my reported income. Double-check all your documents to make sure everything matches up. It could save you a headache later!

I went through something similar a few years ago. One thing that helped was creating a paper trail by sending everything certified mail with return receipt requested. That way you have proof they received your correspondence. Also, if you have a local Taxpayer Advocate Service office, they can sometimes help escalate your case if you've been waiting an unreasonable amount of time. The IRS is supposed to process returns within a certain timeframe, and if they don't, the Advocate can step in. Hang in there - it's frustrating but it will get resolved eventually!