Refund Under Review - Timeline Data Points Needed

Based on my research, review timeframes seem to be somewhat shorter this year compared to previous filing seasons. Approximately 60-70% of returns with examination indicators are being resolved within 21-28 days from the date of the review notification, though this can vary significantly depending on the specific issue flagged. The TC 420 code generally indicates that your return has been selected for examination, but doesn't necessarily mean a full audit - it could be a verification of income, credits, or deductions that triggered automated filters.

This situation is similar to what happened with my brother's return last year. His was under review for about 5 weeks before resolving. If you want to understand exactly what's happening with your transcript, I've found https://taxr.ai to be incredibly helpful. It analyzes all your transcript codes and explains what each one means for your specific situation. In my brother's case, it correctly predicted when his refund would be released based on the pattern of codes, which was much more helpful than the general IRS explanation of each code.

The TC 420 code can mean several different things, and the resolution timeline varies accordingly: • Income verification: Usually 2-3 weeks • Credit eligibility checks: Often 3-4 weeks • Documentation requests: Can extend to 6-8 weeks • Full examination selection: Potentially months Without knowing what triggered your review, it's difficult to predict accurately. Most common for freelancers are Schedule C income verification or EIC eligibility checks, which tend to resolve faster than full examinations.

I was in the same boat last month! Here's what worked for me: Step 1: I tried calling the regular IRS number for days with no luck Step 2: Found Claimyr (https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c) which got me through to an actual agent Step 3: The agent confirmed my review was just routine verification Step 4: Got my DDD exactly 8 days after speaking with them I was amazed how quickly it moved once I actually talked to someone! They explained exactly what was happening and when to expect my refund.

You might want to consider filing for an extension regardless of your refund status. Per Regulation 1.6081-4(a), you can get an automatic six-month extension by filing Form 4868, which would give you until October to make your Q2 estimated payment without penalty. What's surprising is that most taxpayers don't realize that while the extension grants additional time to file, it doesn't extend the time to pay any tax due - but in your specific situation with a refund pending, this distinction works in your favor.

I'm dealing with the EXACT same issue right now and it's so frustrating!!! My 420 code appeared on March 2nd and I STILL don't have my refund! I called yesterday and waited on hold for 2 hours just to be told they can't give me any specific timeframe. I need this money NOW for medical bills that can't wait! The agent did tell me that most review cases are taking 30-45 days from the date the review began, but that there's a backlog in some processing centers. She recommended checking your transcript weekly rather than daily because most updates happen in batches.

I've been dealing with IRS reviews for the past three tax seasons, and they're definitely taking less time to resolve this year. In 2022, my review took 63 days to complete. Last year it was 41 days. This year, with a similar 420 code situation, it took just 24 days from review code to refund issuance. The IRS seems to have streamlined their verification processes significantly.

Think of the IRS review process like a traffic jam - sometimes you're stuck for hours, other times it clears up unexpectedly fast. My refund was under review (same 420 code) and I was preparing for a months-long wait based on horror stories online. But it actually resolved in just 17 days! The key is making sure all your documentation is in perfect order - like having your registration and insurance ready when you get pulled over. The IRS is just checking boxes, and when everything matches their expectations, they move you along quickly.

I'm the data nerd who tracked my entire review process - might help you estimate your timeline! Filed: Jan 29, Accepted: Jan 29, 420 Code appeared: Feb 13, 971 Notice issued: Feb 20, Called IRS: Feb 28 (they confirmed income verification), Verification complete: March 11, 846 Code (refund issued): March 14, Deposit received: March 16. So from review start to money in account was 31 days total. Not the speediest but at least it was predictable once I knew what was happening! 😂

Be very cautious about making financial plans based on an expected refund date when your return is under review. I had a similar situation last year with a TC 420 that initially seemed routine, but it escalated to a more comprehensive review when they couldn't verify certain business expenses. What started as a projected 3-week delay turned into 4 months. If your Q2 estimated payment is due soon, you might want to arrange alternative financing just in case. The penalties for late estimated payments can be significant, especially for self-employed individuals.