2023 Tax Refund Under Review: Tax Topic 151 with Reference Code 1242 - How Long to Wait?

My WMR status changed this morning at 09:13 showing Tax Topic 151 "Your Appeal Rights" and reference number 1242. I checked the IRS official website and it shows they have received my 2023 tax return but it's being reviewed. Here's exactly what I'm seeing on the Results page: Tax year 2023 Return Received ✓ Refund Approved ? Refund Sent ? The status bars only show "Return Received" with a check mark, but "Refund Approved" and "Refund Sent" still have question marks next to them. Below that, it clearly states: "We have received your tax return and it is being reviewed." Under "Helpful Information" it says: "Please read the following information related to your tax situation: Tax Topic 151. Your Appeal Rights" Then under "Contact Us" they provided specific instructions: "If you have questions or need additional information, please have the following on hand when you call: - A copy of this page. - A copy of your tax return. - The Social Security Number, Filing Status, and refund amount claimed on your return. - Any notice that you have received concerning your refund. Please mention reference number 1242 to the IRS Customer Service Representative." They listed their hours of service as Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. And provided these contact numbers: - 1-800-829-0582, when asked for an extension, enter 362. - From outside the US call 267-941-1000. - TTY/TDD: 1-800-829-4059 At the bottom of the page, it shows my personal tax information: Tax Year: 2023 Filing Status: Head of household I really need this refund and I'm worried about what this review means. Has anyone dealt with Tax Topic 151 before? Any idea how long these reviews typically take? Should I call them right away or wait a few days to see if it changes? Does anyone have experience with reference number 1242 specifically? I'm planning to call tomorrow but want to be prepared for what they might tell me.

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13 comments

Ravi Sharma

The WMR status indicates you're under a manual review process, with several key indicators worth noting. Your status page shows "Return Received" but has question marks for both "Refund Approved" and "Refund Sent" stages, which is typical during a review period. Tax Topic 151 combined with reference number 1242 specifically points to an income verification review. The IRS is likely cross-referencing your reported income against information documents (W2s, 1099s) they've received from employers and other sources. This is particularly common with Head of Household filing status, which you've indicated. The provided contact information (1-800-829-0582 ext. 362) is a dedicated line for these types of reviews. The specific extension suggests you'll reach representatives trained in handling income verification cases. The international number (267-941-1000) and TTY/TDD line (1-800-829-4059) ensure accessibility for all taxpayers. When calling, you'll need comprehensive documentation: - The WMR status page - Your complete tax return - Social Security Number - Head of Household filing status verification - Exact refund amount claimed - Any IRS notices received These reviews typically take 60-120 days, though some resolve sooner. The morning timestamp (09:13) shows this is a recent status change, so you're at the beginning of the review timeline. Double-check that all your income documentation matches exactly what you reported on your 2023 return to potentially expedite the process.

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