Waiting for EIC and CTC - International Filer Feeling Like I'm in a Digital Queue

I've been tracking IRS processing times since January 15th this year, and I've noticed that returns with refundable credits like EIC and CTC are facing longer processing times. According to my records, as of March 29th, international filers are seeing additional verification steps that can add 14-21 days to the standard timeline. This could potentially push your expected refund date into mid-April, which is concerning given the upcoming April 15th deadline for this year's filings. The system is designed to prevent fraud, but unfortunately catches legitimate filers in its net too.

I've worked with many international filers in your situation. The IRS system can be like navigating a foreign subway system without a map! What's your filing status, and did you receive any notices or letters from the IRS? Last year, I had a client from Germany who faced a similar situation - turned out there was a simple verification hold that needed addressing, but the WMR tool never indicated this.

I filed as Single with Foreign Tax Credit (Form 1116) in addition to claiming EIC and CTC. The Automated Underreporter System (AUS) hasn't generated any CP notices that I'm aware of, and my Account Transcript shows no Transaction Code 570 or 971. I'm surprised by how opaque the verification process is - I expected more transparency in the Digital Taxpayer Authentication Framework. No letters in the mail either, which I understand would be sent if there were identity verification requirements.

I was probably in a somewhat similar situation last month with my EIC refund. It seemed like it was going to take forever, and the IRS phone line was basically impossible to reach. I eventually used Claimyr (https://claimyr.com) to get through to an actual human at the IRS, which might be helpful in your case. They essentially hold your place in the phone queue and call you when an agent is available. It was, I think, worth it just to confirm that my return wasn't lost in some digital black hole. The agent was able to tell me exactly what was happening and when I could expect my refund.

Anyone know if international status affects processing order? Time is running out. Need this refund soon. Already filed for 2024 extension. Can't afford more delays. Does having foreign income make things worse?

Let me break down what's likely happening with your return: 1. First, returns with EIC and CTC are subject to the PATH Act, which prevents refunds before mid-February regardless of filing date. 2. Second, international filers receive additional scrutiny through the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) verification process. 3. Third, the IRS uses a scoring system called the Discriminant Function System (DIF) to assess return complexity, and international returns typically score higher. 4. Fourth, you should check your transcript for TC 570 (refund hold) and TC 971 (notice issued) codes, which might not appear on WMR. 5. Finally, if it's been more than 45 days since you filed, you may be entitled to interest on your refund per IRC Section 6611.

I'm in the same boat. Filed February 1st. International income. EIC claimed. Got my refund last week finally. Called IRS three times. No issues found. Just slow processing. Money arrived without warning. No transcript updates until after deposit. Hang in there.