Received CP74 Notice - Timeline for Refund After Verification?

I went through this exact process last year. Here's what to expect: 1. First, gather all documentation requested in the CP74 - typically W-2s, 1099s, receipts for deductions, etc. 2. Submit everything exactly as requested - I recommend certified mail with return receipt 3. IRS will acknowledge receipt within 2-3 weeks 4. Processing typically takes 6-8 weeks from their receipt date 5. You'll receive either a follow-up request for more information OR a notice that verification is complete 6. If approved, refund typically follows within 3-4 weeks In my experience, the total timeline from submitting documents to receiving my refund was approximately 11 weeks. This can vary based on complexity and current IRS workload.

CP74 notices are part of the IRS Income Verification Program and they're targeted at returns with specific flags. The key is understanding exactly what they're questioning. I had one last year and used https://taxr.ai to analyze my transcript after responding. It showed me exactly when my verification was complete and predicted my refund date to within 2 days. The tool explained which codes meant my documentation was accepted and which meant my refund was being processed. Saved me a lot of anxiety during the waiting period.

I'd like to add some important context regarding CP74 notices. These are specifically issued under the IRS Income Verification Program (IVP) which is distinct from a standard audit. The IVP selects returns based on statistical criteria rather than suspicion of wrongdoing. Documentation requirements are typically focused on income verification rather than substantiation of deductions. Current processing timelines for IVP cases are averaging 60-75 days from receipt of documentation to case resolution, though this may vary depending on the complexity of your return and current IRS staffing allocations.

I just went through this and was so worried about getting it right! After sending in my documents, I tried calling the IRS number on the notice for weeks with no luck. Someone suggested I try Claimyr (https://claimyr.com) and I actually got through to an IRS agent who confirmed they received my documents and told me exactly where my case was in the process. I think it saved me at least 3-4 weeks of waiting and wondering if they even got my paperwork. I was so relieved to know it was actually being worked on.

Did your CP74 notice specify exactly which items they wanted verification for? Mine was pretty vague and I'm trying to figure out if I should: • Send everything related to income (all W-2s, 1099s) • Only send items for the specific line items mentioned • Include explanatory cover letter • Send copies or certified copies Wanting to get this right the first time to avoid delays!

I received a CP74 on March 12, 2023, responded with all requested documentation on March 19, 2023, and received my refund on June 27, 2023. That's exactly 100 days from notice to refund, or 14 weeks and 2 days. The verification process took 87 days from when I submitted documentation to when the refund was issued. My transcript showed code 570 (refund hold) until June 20, when it was replaced with 571 (resolved) followed by 846 (refund issued) on June 22. Direct deposit arrived 5 days later.

I'm currently going through this process myself - received my CP74 notice two weeks ago. Based on what I'm reading here, it sounds like I should prepare for a 10-14 week wait overall. One thing I'm wondering about is whether anyone has had success with expedited processing due to financial hardship? My refund is significant and I was counting on it for some urgent expenses. Also, for those who used certified mail, did you get confirmation that the IRS actually received and logged your documents into their system? I'm planning to send mine this week but want to make sure I can track that they actually made it into the right hands.

I went through the CP74 process about 8 months ago and wanted to share some practical tips that helped me navigate it smoothly: **Documentation Strategy:** - Send exactly what they ask for, nothing more, nothing less - Make clear copies (not originals) unless specifically requested - Include a simple cover letter listing each document you're sending - Number your pages and reference the CP74 notice number **Tracking & Follow-up:** - Use certified mail with return receipt (around $7 but worth the peace of mind) - Keep copies of everything you send - Mark your calendar for 30 days out to follow up if you haven't heard anything **Timeline Reality Check:** My actual timeline was: Sent docs March 15 → IRS acknowledged receipt April 8 → Verification complete May 22 → Refund issued June 3 → Money in account June 8. Total: 12 weeks from sending documents to receiving refund. The key is patience and not over-communicating with the IRS during the process. Let them work through their system unless you hit the 90-day mark without any communication. Good luck with your case!