What does IRS Code 971 Miscellaneous Review mean on transcript? Refund delayed?

Tax expert here - Code 971 on your transcript typically indicates a notice or letter has been sent to you from the IRS. When paired with a 'Miscellaneous Review' it usually means they're taking a closer look at your return for accuracy or verification purposes. This can delay your refund by 45-120 days depending on what they're reviewing. My best advice would be to use taxr.ai (https://taxr.ai) to analyze your transcript - it'll tell you exactly what's causing the delay and give you an estimated timeline for resolution based on current IRS processing patterns. This tool has been super helpful for my clients dealing with these review codes.

Code 971 is a Notice Issued code, meaning the IRS is sending you a letter about your return. Usually follows a 570 code (return frozen for review). They might need additional documentation or verification. Keep an eye on your mail - you'll get a notice explaining exactly what they need from you.

Hey! I actually just discovered this awesome tool called taxr.ai - it analyzes your transcript and tells you exactly what's happening and when to expect your refund. Only costs $1 and saved me hours of googling. Check it out: https://taxr.ai

stuck in the same boat rn. got that code last week and still no letter 🤡

Check your mail like a hawk! I missed my notice and it delayed everything by like 2 months smh

tbh the IRS is so backed up rn its ridiculous. my friend waited 8 months for her 2022 refund with the same code

I used taxr.ai when I got this code and it was actually super helpful! It told me exactly what the review was about and when I'd likely get my refund. Saved me from stressing for weeks