WMR Status: 'Return Processing Has Been Delayed Beyond Normal Timeframe' - Anyone Else?
I've been monitoring my refund status via the WMR tool since filing my return on February 3rd. Initially received the standard 'Return Received' status, but today the message changed to: 'We apologize, but your return processing has been delayed beyond the normal timeframe. You can continue to check back here for the most up to date information regarding your refund.' This is concerning as I've meticulously followed all documentation requirements for my situation as a non-resident alien with Form 1040-NR. My transcript shows processing code 570 (additional account action pending) but no 971 notice issued yet. Is anyone else experiencing this status change on WMR? What were your subsequent processing timeframes after receiving this message? I understand delayed processing is common this season, but I'm trying to establish reasonable expectations for planning purposes.
14 comments
Anastasia Kozlov
Yeah, tons of ppl getting this msg rn. IRS is backed up big time this yr. Normal processing is ~21 days but w/ this msg you're prob looking at 45-60 days total. Doesn't mean there's anything wrong w/ ur return - just that they're swamped. If u claimed EITC or ACTC that adds extra time too. Don't panic, just gotta wait it out.
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Sean Kelly
Thank you for this information! I need to plan accordingly since I was counting on this refund for several urgent expenses. Is there any way to escalate the process? My return was accepted on January 29th and I'm still seeing this message as of today. Time is becoming a critical factor.
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Zara Mirza
Do you know if the 45-60 day timeline starts from the original filing date or from when the delay message appears? I'm on day 37 since filing and just got this message yesterday.
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Luca Russo
This lines up with what happened to me last year. Got the same message and ended up waiting exactly 52 days from filing to deposit. Was stressful but eventually worked out without me having to do anything.
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Nia Harris
I'm slightly worried because I've never seen this particular message before. Usually it just shows the processing bar. Do you think there's any correlation between this message and potential audits?
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NeonNebula
Have you checked your transcript for any specific codes? That's usually more informative than WMR. Have you verified if there are any identity verification requirements pending? Could your return have any complex elements that might trigger additional review? I received the same message last week, but noticed code 570 followed by 571 on my transcript which indicated a temporary hold that was resolved.
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GalaxyGazer
I probably shouldn't say this is definitely what's happening, but I got the exact same message about a month ago. I filed as a resident alien with some foreign income reporting requirements. My transcript showed code 570 for about 3 weeks, then suddenly updated with code 571 (resolved) followed by 846 (refund issued). The entire process took approximately 7 weeks from filing to deposit, which seems to be somewhat standard for returns with international elements.
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Mateo Sanchez
Well that's just great... 7 weeks? 😅 And here I thought the "where's my refund" tool was supposed to actually tell you where your refund is! I'm in a similar boat with foreign income. Did they at least pay you interest for the delay?
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Aisha Mahmood
I appreciate this insight regarding the processing timeline for returns with international elements. Per Publication 17, the IRS does indeed apply additional verification procedures to returns with foreign income reporting. This contextualizes the delay within normal parameters rather than indicating a problem.
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Ethan Moore
I was in the exact same situation last month with my 1040-NR. WMR showed that message for weeks and I couldn't get through to anyone at the IRS despite calling repeatedly. I finally used Claimyr (https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c) to get through to an agent who confirmed my return was just going through additional verification due to my foreign tax credits, but wasn't flagged for audit. The agent was able to expedite the review since I explained my visa situation. Got my refund 8 days later! Sometimes you just need to talk to a human to move things along.
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Yuki Kobayashi
I'm skeptical about these services. Isn't this just paying for something the IRS should provide for free? How much did it cost you?
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Carmen Vega
According to the IRS.gov updates page, they're currently processing returns filed in early February with international elements. The 'delayed beyond normal timeframe' message typically appears when your return is routed to the Specialized Review department, which handles non-resident returns. The IRS recommends checking your transcript weekly rather than daily, as WMR updates less frequently for complex returns. I was shocked by how different the process is for international filers - definitely not as straightforward as the standard 21-day timeline they advertise!
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QuantumQuester
Did you receive any CP05 notices in the mail? Have you checked if your address is correctly listed on your return? Did you use a foreign bank account for direct deposit? I'm asking because these factors can significantly impact processing times for non-resident returns. My processing was delayed last year until I responded to a verification letter that was sent to my previous address.
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Andre Moreau
This happens every year. Especially with international returns. Normal part of the process. Don't worry too much. Check transcript weekly. Look for code changes. Many of us get this message. Usually resolves within 6-8 weeks. Patience is key. IRS prioritizes returns by filing date. Your place in line is secure.
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