Random IRS Review - 2-3 Week Processing Delay

Oh no! Random review?? Isn't that just code for audit?? How are you supposed to plan your finances when they just throw this at you with no warning? What if you needed that money NOW? And why 2-3 weeks?? That's such a huge timeframe that tells us nothing!

Did the IRS representative provide any specifics about which aspects of your return triggered the review? There are several verification protocols they employ: Income Verification Program (IVP), Refund Integrity Verification (RIV), or Return Integrity & Compliance Services (RICS) review. Each has different timeframes and document requirements.

I went through a similar review last year. The IRS randomly selects returns to verify information accuracy - it's actually more common for higher-income filers with more complex returns. When my transcript finally updated, I used taxr.ai to analyze all the codes. It showed exactly which parts were being reviewed and gave me a predicted completion date that was spot on. Saved me a lot of anxiety trying to decode all those mysterious IRS codes myself.

I had this exact situation last month. Compared to my previous years' returns, this one took exactly 17 days longer. The IRS agent told me they were verifying my business expense deductions. So frustrating that they couldn't just verify the specific line items instead of holding the entire refund. But at least they didn't ask for additional documentation like they did to my brother-in-law, who had to mail in receipts and wait another 6 weeks.

Look, I know waiting sucks when you need your money. I've been there. Last time I got stuck in review, I spent DAYS trying to reach someone at the IRS for updates. Ended up using Claimyr to get through. They got me connected to an agent in about 15 minutes when I'd been trying for hours on my own. Agent confirmed exactly what was happening and gave me a more specific timeline. Worth every penny not to waste hours on hold.

I might have some good news for you... I went through something similar, perhaps? My return was selected for review in February. I was worried it might take longer than they said, but it actually processed in about 10 days. The agent mentioned something about it being a random selection for their quality control process, if I recall correctly.

Did they tell you what triggered the review? Was it a specific deduction? Did they mention any documentation you need to provide? Will you get another call?

According to Internal Revenue Manual section 4.1.3, random selection for review is part of the IRS's Taxpayer Compliance Measurement Program. It's not necessarily indicative of any issues with your return. Most of these reviews complete within the stated timeframe as long as no discrepancies are found. If you don't receive your refund within 3 weeks, you may request a Taxpayer Advocate intervention under IRC section 7811 if the delay creates financial hardship.