Joint vs. Separate Filing - Different Verification Timelines?

Oh wow, this is actually a common issue this year! Here's what's happening step-by-step: 1. The code 810 means the IRS has frozen your refund for verification purposes 2. When your husband's 810 was resolved on March 7th, his refund was released for processing 3. Your 810 was just lifted yesterday, which means you're now in the next phase 4. You still need to complete the verification they requested in the letter 5. Once you verify, it typically takes 9-21 days for processing I had no idea the IRS could treat joint filers so differently! It's like you're in completely separate systems even though you filed on the same day!

I had almost the exact same situation. My wife and I filed the same day. She got her refund in 21 days. Mine got the 810 freeze. Had to verify identity. The system works independently for each taxpayer. Follow the instructions in your letter exactly. Don't skip any steps. My verification took 3 days to process once submitted. Refund came 11 days after that.

Isn't it frustrating when you're stuck waiting on hold with the IRS for hours? And why do they make it so difficult to reach an actual person who can help? I spent three days trying to get through about my verification letter. Finally used Claimyr (https://claimyr.com) and got connected to an agent in about 15 minutes. They confirmed my verification was received and processing - saved me days of uncertainty. Wouldn't you rather spend your time doing literally anything else than listening to that hold music?

I think you might be confusing two different verification processes. On January 20th, 2024, you both e-filed. Then on March 7th, your husband completed verification and his 810 code was lifted. Your 810 code was lifted on April 10th (yesterday), but you still need to verify? The verification letter you received today (April 11th) might be for identity verification (Form 5071C) rather than return verification. Check the letter carefully for which form number it references.

Be careful with the verification process. I had a similar situation with code 810 and when my notice arrived, I didn't respond quickly enough. This triggered a 60-day review cycle that completely delayed my refund. The Identity Verification Letter (5071C) requires action within 30 days or they'll suspend processing. If it's a Return Verification (4883C), you need to have specific documentation ready before calling the number on the letter.

Have you checked whether your return had different elements than your husband's? Like did one of you claim education credits or have self-employment income while the other didn't? I've noticed that compared to my friends with simple W-2 income, my returns with Schedule C always get extra scrutiny and verification steps. Could that explain the different treatment?

This happens more than you'd think. The community wisdom on verification letters: • Respond to verification letters IMMEDIATELY • Use the exact method they specify (online, phone, or mail) • Have all requested documents ready before starting • Take screenshots/notes of your verification completion • Check your transcript 4-5 days after verifying • Expect 9-21 days for processing after verification I'm still surprised how many people don't realize that married couples filing separately are treated as completely independent taxpayers by the IRS systems!