Identity Verification Complete - 846 Code Posted - Will I Get DD or Paper Check?

I'm so happy to tell you that getting a paper check last year was likely just how your specific case was handled, not a universal rule! 😊 I went through ID verification myself in 2022, and still got my refund via direct deposit about 7 days after the 846 code appeared. The verification process and the refund delivery method are actually two separate systems within the IRS - one doesn't automatically determine the other!

It seems like you might potentially be able to check your refund status using the Where's My Refund tool, which could possibly tell you how your refund will be delivered. I believe that sometimes the IRS might switch to a paper check if there were perhaps any issues with the bank account information you provided, or if the verification process sort of triggered some kind of additional review. In my experience, it's usually worth checking the tool every day or so as you get closer to your refund date.

The IRS uses specific refund protocols following identity verification. The Refund Issuance Determination System (RIDS) evaluates each case individually. Your Transaction Code 846 confirms refund approval, but doesn't guarantee delivery method. The Direct Deposit Indicator (DDI) on your account determines this. Verification cases often get flagged for additional scrutiny in the Refund Integrity Verification Environment (RIVE), which can override your selected payment method. Check your transcript for code 846 with "CHECK" or "DD" notation next to the amount.

I had the exact same situation last month! Got verified, saw my 846 code, and spent days wondering if I'd get DD or paper check. Called the regular IRS number about 20 times with no luck getting through. Finally used Claimyr (https://claimyr.com) and got connected to an agent in about 15 minutes who confirmed I was getting direct deposit. Worth every penny not to wait weeks for a paper check that might get lost! The agent told me they could see exactly how my refund would be delivered, which the website doesn't show.

Here's how to determine your refund delivery method after verification: 1. Access your full account transcript, not just the return transcript 2. Look for the 846 code line 3. Check for a notation after the amount that says either "DD" or "CHECK" 4. If no notation, examine the full line for your bank account number (last 4 digits) 5. If bank info appears, it's direct deposit 6. If you see "CHECK" or no bank info, expect a paper check 7. For direct confirmation, call IRS at 800-829-1040 8. Use option 2, then 1, then 3, then 2, and provide your info when prompted The system changed in late 2023 - more verified returns now keep their original delivery method.

I just went through this EXACT situation 17 days ago! Verified my identity on February 28th, got 846 code on March 2nd with date of March 6th. I received my direct deposit exactly on March 6th at 3:27am. The IRS processed exactly 4,821 verification cases that same day according to the agent I spoke with. Of those, 76% kept their original refund method (DD or check). You should have your money in exactly 6 days from now if the pattern holds!