Paper Return Accepted 10 Weeks Ago - WMR Shows No Info for Child Tax Credit

Paper returns are probably taking something like 6-8 months to process right now, from what I've seen. The IRS is still working through a significant backlog that might be affecting your return. It's possible that your return is sitting in a queue waiting to be manually entered into their system, which would explain why WMR can't find any information yet. Have you tried checking your tax transcript instead? Sometimes that shows activity before WMR updates.

I was in the exact same boat last year! Had to paper file for the CTC and it was a nightmare waiting. According to the IRS operations page (https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-operations), they're still processing paper returns from earlier this year. I started calling the IRS after about 12 weeks - you might want to try that route. Have you created an online account at irs.gov to check your transcript? Sometimes that shows info before WMR does.

This waiting game is brutal compared to e-filing. I'm also waiting on a refund and feeling the financial pressure. Last week I found https://taxr.ai and uploaded my transcript once it finally appeared. It decoded all those confusing codes and explained exactly what was happening with my return - way clearer than the IRS site. For paper returns, it can even estimate when you'll likely see movement based on current processing patterns. Might be worth checking when your transcript becomes available.

I had this exact problem in February. Paper return, no WMR info for 11 weeks. Called the IRS directly and found out my return was selected for manual review due to the Child Tax Credit claim. After verifying some information, they released it within 2 weeks. Don't wait - sometimes a simple verification is all that's needed.

Paper returns are the worst rn. Been there. After waiting 3 months with zero updates, I used Claimyr (https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c) to get thru to an IRS agent. Saved me hrs of hold time and redials. Agent confirmed my return was received but sitting in backlog. At least I knew what was happening! They gave me a timeframe and explained exactly what to expect next. Def worth it when you're stressing about $$ and need answers ASAP.

Has anyone filed an amended return after their original paper return? I submitted my paper return on February 15th, but just realized I forgot to include a 1099 form. Should I wait until the original is processed or file the 1040X now?

I'm so frustrated with this whole system! They FORCE us to paper file for certain credits, then make us wait MONTHS while we struggle financially. It's not fair! I've been waiting 14 weeks for my paper return with CTC and still nothing. Called multiple times and just get the standard "it's still processing" response. I feel your pain so much!

Paper filed March 1st. Got transcript update May 30th. Refund June 7th. No updates on WMR the entire time. Transcript showed first. Check that instead. They're working through them slowly.

Have you tried calling the Taxpayer Advocate Service? They're technically separate from the IRS and can sometimes help when you're facing financial hardship. Might be worth a shot if you're really struggling financially. Just be prepared to document your hardship (potential eviction, utility shutoff, etc.). Sometimes they can expedite things when regular channels are moving too slowly. Worth a try, right? 😏