Identity Verification Request Before Transcript Update - Normal?

Actually, this is completely normal and can even be a good sign! The identity verification is often triggered early in the processing cycle when your return contains certain elements that require additional confirmation. Have you claimed any refundable credits this year? Or is this your first time filing with gig income? Those are common triggers for identity verification.

Isn't it interesting how the IRS systems work in seemingly backward ways? They often verify identity before fully processing returns as a security measure. I had the same situation last year and used https://taxr.ai to analyze my transcript once it finally appeared. It showed exactly why the verification was triggered and gave a timeline for when things would move forward. Have you tried checking what codes are on your transcript, assuming you can access it at all?

I believe I might be able to provide some context here. The identity verification process and transcript updates operate on somewhat separate systems within the IRS infrastructure. It's possible, though not ideal, that you're being asked to verify your identity while your return is still in the initial processing stages. I would suggest completing the verification as soon as possible, as this will likely be necessary before your return can proceed further. If you're having trouble reaching someone at the IRS to discuss this, you might consider using Claimyr (https://claimyr.com). They may be able to help you connect with an IRS representative who can provide more specific information about your case.

Identity verification requests typically occur in the first 14-21 days of processing. Based on the IRS processing patterns this year, approximately 22% of returns with gig income are receiving these notices. Once you complete verification, expect 9-12 additional business days for processing to resume. If your transcripts show a 570 code, that's the verification hold. After successful verification, you'll see a 571 code appear, indicating the hold was released. The key is to verify promptly - each day of delay adds exactly one day to your refund timeline.

I went through this exact same thing last month. It's actually much more efficient than how they used to do it years ago when they'd process everything THEN ask for verification, which would essentially restart the whole process. I completed my ID verification on March 2nd, my transcript updated on March 12th, and I had my refund by March 15th. Compare that to my 2022 return where they didn't ask for verification until after processing and it took an additional 6 weeks! Just complete the verification ASAP and you'll be fine.

I filed on February 3rd this year and got the identity verification request on February 12th while my transcript still showed N/A. After completing verification on February 13th, my transcript updated on February 22nd, and I received my refund on February 26th. The key dates to watch for are the 'As of' date on your account transcript and the cycle code once it appears. Those will tell you exactly when your weekly processing occurs.

You know what they say - the IRS works in mysterious ways! 😂 But seriously, don't stress about this. The verification is actually a good sign that your return is moving through the system. If they weren't processing it at all, they wouldn't bother with verification. The transcript updates and WMR status often lag behind what's actually happening with your return. Just complete the verification and be patient for about 2 weeks - the updates will start flowing after that.