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Why Your 2019 Early Tax Return Will Be Delayed

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If you're expecting a tax refund, the most common advice is that you should file your tax return as soon as possible. There is no reason to let the government keep your money any longer. But for some filers this year, your early tax return will be delayed because of new laws designed to stop identity theft.

Over the last few years, identity theft related to taxes has exploded. In order to reduce possible losses from identity theft, Congress passed a law that forces the IRS to delay issuing refunds for people claiming certain deductions (the ones most likely used by identity thieves). 

And in 2019, there is a special reason your tax refund will be delayed: the Trump government shutdown. 

The sad part is, though, that many honest people will see their tax returns delayed by several weeks. Now, that's not detrimental, but it is a longer wait than in past years. In fact, you can see our estimated tax refund calendar to know when you're going to expect your tax refund.

If you're still deciding on how to file your taxes this year, check out TurboTax. Take action now with TurboTax and get your taxes done. Check out TurboTax here.

Quick Navigation
The Government Shutdown
Delays For EITC and Child Tax Credit
What Types Of Tax Returns Does This Impact?
How Long Do I Have To Wait For My Refund?​

The Government Shutdown

The government shutdown is likely going to cause a lot of delays for early tax filers. The reason is simple: without contractors helping the IRS, they cannot get all of the programming done to the software to get the software live.

2018 saw a LOT of tax changes - Trump's Tax Reform had major impacts to the tax code, and that means a LOT of new software programming has to be created.

We've spoken to representatives from several major tax companies, and before the shutdown they were receiving almost daily updates from the IRS regarding software changes and updates. During the shutdown, that has trickled down.

Here's a quote from a CEO of a major tax software company, "Due to the significant changes that took place this year (and perhaps due to the government shutdown), IRS has left us with a bunch of loose ends and forms that have still not been finalized."

The IRS announced they will begin accepting returns on January 28, 2019, but if the software isn't ready, who is going to actually be able to file? 

Check out our Tax Refund Calendar for the latest updates.

Delays For EITC and Child Tax Credit

If you're a crook, you try to file as many tax returns as quickly as possible. You see, the IRS processes everything on a first-come, first serve basis.​ So, if a criminal files a tax return in your name before you do, and they steal your refund - they win the race.

For the government, they will end up paying you the proper refund, but they also lost the money that went to the criminals. The bottom line is that they are delaying your tax refund because they don't want to lose more money.​ And it is serious money - the IRS estimates it paid out of $1.3 billion in fraudulent tax refunds last year.

If you're a victim of identity theft, you're going to have to submit a bunch of documents to the IRS to get the identity theft issue resolved. This can take anywhere from several weeks to several months. It's a long process, and it's not always easy.​

In an effort to combat this, the IRS is now going to hold some refunds until February 15, 2018. The goal here is to see if two tax returns are filed for the same individual. 

If you're concerned you are a victim of identity theft, read our common IRS questions and answers here for more information.

What Types Of Tax Returns Does This Impact?

It's important to note that not ALL tax returns are being delayed because of this new law. Only tax returns that have the following tax credits are being held:

  • Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
  • Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)

These are likely the most common tax credits taken by criminals, since they are what's known as Refundable Tax Credits. That means, even if you owe no taxes because of low or moderate income, you could still receive a refund for these tax credits.

If you're a criminal looking to get the most money possible, you'll likely want to file a return with these tax credits on it.

However, the impact is that low and moderate income tax filers have to wait longer for their tax refunds than in previous years.​

How Long Do I Have To Wait For My Refund?​

So, how long a delay will my tax return have? It all depends...

The IRS is still estimating that 90% of people should receive their refunds within 21 days. If you file early, the IRS will hold your refund until February 15, and then begin processing your refund. So, you could see a delay until the middle to end of February.

Based on what we've seen in prior years, we have a estimated tax refund calendar that we believe is pretty accurate. We encourage you to post your story so that others can see the timing as it happens.​

If you want to get started on your taxes early, check out our picks for the best tax software for early tax filers.

Did you find your tax refund delayed by this new law?​

Filed Under: Taxes Tagged With: ,
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Comments

  1. I’ve always filed early and this is the first year it’s been delayed. It’s been 22 days, and I have tax topic 152 with my refund amount. I don’t want to call yet, but I don’t know why I’m receiving this message whereas before, I had bars. Needless to say, it’s frustrating. Anyone else experiencing this? I don’t have EIC or child tax credits, so why the delay?

    Reply

    • 90% of filers get their refund within 21 days. Remember, though, some tax software doesn’t transmit on the day filing opens. Also, that remaining 10% is like 30 million people – you’re not alone.

      Reply

      • I was excepted by the irs on 1/29 and i received a letter that i was chosen fora random review for 60 days my 60 day review started on 3/8 the date that was stated on the letter. My 60 days is up 5/8, i haven’t called irs yet but I’m giving them a call tomorrow. I didn’t claim no child dependents or nothing so i don’t understand what’s this long hold up? It’s way past 21 days and there’s no reason the irs still needs to keep holding my refund. They really need to just release my ???? now I’ve waited long enough and this is seriously rediculous so can you give me a good reason the irs still hasn’t released my refund? Thanks

        Reply

        • I couldn’t tell you, but you should call. Also, remember, tax refunds are optional – you can always change your W4 withholding to owe taxes each year instead of getting a refund so you never have to deal with this again.

          Reply

        • Hello I’m having that same problem the same date that you put up I got a letter in the mail 3/8 saying that I was going to receive was going to receive something in 60 days it’s been 60 days and still no update what is the number to the IRS how do you get in contact with the IRS because all I can talk to is The Voice line thing telling me to put in my social security number filing status and a refund amount and it tells me the same thing what’s online is that my refund is still being process but it’s been over 60 days already or more

          Reply

          • Did u ever reciebe ir refund if don’t mind me asking I’m dealing with the same thing as u are

          • I got my letter in April and have called several times, Its September now and I still haven’t gotten my refund I spoke to Mr. Pike today very frustrating phone conversation!, only for him to hang up the call on me.
            They should not be getting away with this. it just seems wrong to hold on to people’s money!

          • If your refund is delayed due to identity theft you can expect it to take 9 weeks from when you verify.

          • I too have just a being processed message since the PACT message lifted last week. It seems everyone else claiming EIC or ACTC has a Direct Deposit Date or a refund. I have a simple 1040 return.

          • So what if it says tax topic 152 and “still processing”. I filed on Feb 11th and it got accepted the next day. There were bars on the wheres my refund site but now there is nothing but that message and code. I just claimed one child and im single i dont have the additional child or earned income stuff. You would think the people who dont have all those extra claims and exemptions would be processed first. It is impossible to reach a human by phone at the IRS unless you wait on hold an hour so i am giving it the 21 days before i even call.. im not pressed for the funds but last year i got my funds like two weeks after i filed.

          • Well, you filed on 2/11. That means your 21 days is March 4. And your message is 152 – which means you’re getting a refund. Why are you trying to call? You’re not even expected to get your return until next week anyway.

          • My husband filed end of jan he is claiming our daughter and his was accepted jan 30th he had status bars with the 152 code but bars disappeared and a message says your refund is processing a refund date will be provided when available. And that’s all there’s no code or nothing. Will he be getting his refund or

        • Mine say the same thing and its very upsetting you have been waiting over 21 days for someone else to file after you and get their refund and still waiting with no update or anything

          Reply

          • Thats is my problem as well. If you go try going on taxact.com. It will give you more info. Mine read accepted on Jan 22. But Irs still stating processing. Sucks. Its annoying than I have lots of coworkers with kids just came in yesterday and today. They filed way after..smh..at this point is frustrating.

          • I still have a processing memo and i was accepted jan.28th..my bars left 2 weeks ago..i did file EIC…no date or anything

          • Horl Yes mine was accepted on January 22 but if we haven’t received a notice in the mail or where’s my refund says to call I think we should be ok. A few of my friends who just filed have gotten approved but I’m still processing.

          • Mine was accepted 2/06 and my bars also went away saying it’s still processing. 2/27 was 21 days for me so I called on 2/28 and the lady looked over my tax return and said there wasn’t anything wrong with it at all, she said that due to so many people filing the same time that I did, that they were delaying refunds by a week. So I’m assuming she means the week of 3/04 or the week of 3/11, either way it is very frustrating.

        • They doing the same thing too me too.
          I called they said its being reviewed bullshit. I have the EITC I filed on 2/7/2019. IRS told me its on review untill the 18th of March and can take up to 45 days.

          Reply

          • I have the same issue. Filed 2-9. Have no bars and the website says its still processing today with the 152 code. Its unfortunate because I was counting on this return. The irs tells me to count 45 days from March 18th as well. I’m not even getting back much. This is beyond frustrating!!!

          • Ditto, I filed my taxes 1/31; w/ the ACTC, accepted the next day 2/1. The following week lost my bars + got the 152 message; saw no updates or refund by the end of the month. Called the IRS today, they said to count 45 days from 3/11, as my taxes are under review. Freaked me out to think I may have mossed something when I filed, but glad to see I am,not alone in this issue.

          • Same thing happened to me filed my takes February 1st approved in a few hours just shows processing the bars disappeared called in the first week of March and they told me that my tax return was being Reviewed and that their was no errors on my end and it was going to start March 18 and could take 45 days which is May 2nd and that they would be contacting me by mail if they need anything. And that if I don’t see a update between that time to give them a call back

    • I’m 70 days after a letter was issued so a total of 80 days with my refund in a state of processing. No updates my return hasn’t been reviewed.

      Reply

    • I’m on the same boat Toni, I filed early this year, but later found out the IRS wouldn’t start processing returns until Jan. 28th. I don’t have any EICs but I do have a kid in college. I keep getting the same message, “152”. I called IRS yesterday, I was told that is the reason why they’re holding my refund. They also said that IRS would start processing on Feb. 15th and for me to check back with them on Feb. 18th. so, that means that we probably won’t see our refund until the end of February.

      Reply

      • I filed early also. When I checked refund status it was still processing. Now on Feb 15, 2019 it saying my refund is been delayed. If I called use code 1451.

        Reply

          • Yep was told that to was also told they send letter starting March 4th then on 25 they will get to them and it’s atleast 45 days FROM March 25

          • mine to they said its under review for 45 days and that there sending me a letter on the 11th explaining whats going on im like im a single mom havent been able to work do to a meds i started and this money would help me caught up on bills and now im stressing again and i have filed same way for 4 years now never had a problem

          • Just wondering… have you seen your refund yet. My dates are similar to yours and I have not seen it yet.

        • Thats is my problem as well. If you go try going on taxact.com. It will give you more info. Mine read accepted on Jan 22. But Irs still stating processing. Sucks. Its annoying than I have lots of coworkers with kids just came in yesterday and today. They filed way after..smh..at this point is frustrating.

          Reply

          • I was accepted on January 22 mine says still processing. I don’t get any other message. I think it’s since we filed early.

    • I filed January 24th & received notification the following day Jan 25th that my return was accepted by the irs. I know they didn’t begin accepting until January 29th however I wanted to file early. I claimed the EIC & was told February 15th would be the day filers claiming EIC would be processed no earlier than Feb 15th. I was told by an irs rep that the week of the 27th would be when the funds would be released for those claiming the EIC Credit.

      Reply

      • This is spot on, but the 27th is ambitious. I’m sure some will start getting it, but most will likely be getting it around March 4.

        Reply

        • So I was accepted 29th of Jan I have child credit I’ve always gotten mine around the 17th of Feb all I’ve seen on wmr so far this year is still processing so when should I expect to see it I know few people who claim child credit that have received there refunds already so what it about not getting them till after the 27th of feb if some with the credits have already gotten theres

          Reply

          • Your tax return started processing on 2/15, and it takes on average 21 days. We think that 2/27 is early for most. You’ll likely see it around March 4-ish.

        • I was told I am on a 45 day hold beginning March 11th I filed the 29th of January. After I spoke to the IRS I checked the status a week later just curious and it of course said delayed…take action well I checked today and it says being processed would it be possible they check it AMD process it before the 45 days I’m confused

          Reply

          • If you were flagged for review a real human is going to look at your return. The IRS Agent you spoke to could have been the one to flag you, which is why we don’t recommend calling before your 21 days (and that 21 days started on Feb 15 for PATH).

        • What about if they say they will do a review March 4Th and give you 45 day window on getting your refund or getting more info from you first… I filed 3 kids, same each year… What’s going on? Mines say TAKE ACTION! TAX REFUND PROCESSING HAS BEEN DELAYED WITH TAX CODE 1541…WTH..!

          Reply

          • An actual review means your tax return is being looked at by a real person. It does take time, but it’s not an audit. If they need any additional info, they’ll reach out.

    • Same thing happened with me. Really annoying. And it’s not giving me an estimated date even though turbo tax said it should have been in my account on 2/18.

      Reply

    • Yes I too am going through this same thing my bars are gone and for the last two weeks almost my federal has been saying it’s processi and a refund date will be provided when available I don’t understand this. I filed on the 30th of January and it was accepted but nothing else has happened since then accept my bars went away and hasn’t popped back up yet.

      Reply

      • Same thing is happening to me I called and they told me it was being reviewed. And it would take 45 day

        Reply

    • I am experiencing this i filed on jan 29 and accepted on jan 29. Mines still say pending and i do not have a date. My friend going thru the same issue they told her she got to wait 45days they doing an additional review

      Reply

    • Mines is the same I called they told me it’s under review and that I shall receive a letter in the mail no later than March 18

      Reply

      • I was told the same tha I should receive a letter almost 2 weeks ago but never did. Did you receive one?

        Reply

    • I am experiencing the same exact but I do have EIC and Child Tax Credit and I called and they informed me that the processing was delayed but now is being processed and to give it 9 weeks starting a week after it was transmitted and accepted.

      Reply

      • I filed on Feb 7th and it says the same thing for weeks that my tax return is still being processed. I did file for a child. When I called after the 21 days they said that mine was being delayed but could not see exactly why and said after 45 days call if nothing has changed. When I called My tax lady she said not to panick… so I’m defineatly not the one only one with this issue? It’s really getting out of hand…. I don’t know if I should be panicked or not.

        Reply

    • IRS receivesd mine February 2nd and still being processed. I just got the letter a couple days ago they are holding it. I did eic and cic. It is now March 20th still nothing. I did get the state quick.

      Reply

    • I have had no bars and a tax topic 152 reference since February 6th yet still NO REFUND!!!!! I do have the EITC and Child Tax Credits but do not believe that’s what’s holding up the process nor that I have made any errors but believe it’s related to the new tax software and it’s relation to forms submitted as a result of my 401(k) and investment incomes. Of course I am unable to confirm that but in a recent conversation with a tax advocate was able to determine that the GMF section of the IRS is currently working to resolve the ‘error’ they are receiving with all of my add’l forms and have not been able to bypass it…..just unfortunately, my return has now been on hold for 40-days as they work their way through it (or fumble through it!). Sure it doesn’t given any tax payer expecting a refund the warm and fuzzies….SO VERY FRUSTRATING AND DISCOURAGING!!!!!!!!!

      Reply

  2. I submitted my tax return on Jan 30. I called the IRS and they said it’s been processed but they are holding it to ensure I don’t have any tax debts or owe money to anyone. I had an installment payment arrangement for 2015 taxes which was payed in full last year (2017). They confirmed all tax debts have been paid so I don’t understand how they can hold my refund. Nobody can tell me when to expect it. Has anyone else had a similar situation? If so, how long did it take to get your refund?

    Reply

    • Yes!!! I am dealing with the same thing. 60 days was over on 5/8. I called they said 14 more days. I called on 5/24 and i was told they dont know why i havent got them yet. The irs lady said she had to put in a referral to the review department. but could be another 60 days.

      Reply

    • Yes I filed 2 12 verified on Mar 1 still topic 152 10 weeks called today for a TA held after 1 hour and 32 minutes I hung up called the IRS held another 30 min for a pin number whatever that’s supppsed to mean it’s almost laughable if it weren’t so serious!! I don’t understand are they shorthanded or what 1 hour and 32 minutes to be on hold is unacceptable from any government office!!! Good Luck to everyone he did tell me they only have until may 13 to issue my refund we will see

      Reply

  4. Its been over 21 days now my bars have disappeared and the website says its still processing my refund and it will provide a date when available i called and asked them about the school credit i claim and one rep. Told me people who claim school credit refund will be delayed til may 6. But they cant give me any other answers

    Reply

  6. I did mine Jan 23 says it’s processing it’s won’t tell me but that it’s saying income verification what is that and we are already in march

    Reply

  7. I received a letter from the IRS that stated the delay can be up to 60 days as they review my income. I have multiple jobs last years as I have done the year before. 60 days is a long time the letter was worded like I was a criminal that didn’t even file my taxes. I filed on 1/29. I feel the real reason is because the government shutdown no reason my return should be delayed. Before that I received my return back in a month or so. They should just state they are behind on issuing refunds.

    Reply

    • Well I got the same letter. I filed min Jan 27 2018. This is the 1st time mine has ever gotten held hostage. I guess they think this is extra but its not I live off that though out the year to offset what I don’t make. If I owed them they would want interest on top of what I owed.

      Reply

      • It’s a shame those of us that actually do the right thing get penalized. I’m a student and a single parent and use the money to offset what I have lost due to a cut in pay for returning to school… I agree… if we owed them that would want it ASAP plus interest and would send you letters and call on a regular wanting to know when they could expect payment…. this is really upsetting!!!!!!

        Reply

        • I filed joint with my husband on Jan 28th 2019..accepted same day..My bars disappeared then came back..Says being processed!!..We dont have any kids to claim..just 1 w-2..Frustrated cant speak to someone at irs!!

          Reply

          • You can still have EITC without children – did you claim the Earned Income Tax Credit?

        • We filed an injured spouse claim form w additional child tax credit, now it was my student loan debt with first hubby so I don’t think my new husband should have to pay this debt but we filed married filing joint on Jan 26 2018. It’s been what 43 days and the IRS says still processing. Today is March 9,2018. Oops also claimed student loans for my daughter so this is like 3/4 issues they have to look into and I know it will get to us when it gets to us and the longer the government sits on our taxes they making money. It’s time they let some money go. With new laws in effect this year everyone will get delayed.

          Reply

          • Happened to us last year. You won’t get your refund until June -July. But they will add in interest for the time they held the refund.

  9. I filed mine feb 8 and I’m getting the still processing message as well. I don’t have any school. Just work and kids.

    Reply

    • NO ! I filed mines on 01/29 they said they wouldnt process it until 02/15 and i still have no information yet it still says processing .

      Reply

  18. The irs released my refund march 2nd but i haven’ T received anything an my wmr hasnt updated they said i have to waot 3 weeks an order to recieve a refund

    Reply

  19. I filed on Feb 1st and it still says it is being processed. I called them and they said it is in their “resolutions department”. I’ve been told it will fix itself to they don’t know what is wrong, they aren’t able to see it. Should I be concerned?

    Reply

    • I wouldn’t. It’s probably a simple mistake or error and they’ll fix it and send you an adjustment based on what was wrong. I’ve had it happen to me before and it’s no big deal.

      Reply

        • If you were being audited you would have received a letter, had to provide a bunch of information to the IRS, and likely have to have a meeting with the IRS.

          The fact you don’t have a refund or any information means you’re NOT being audited. However, your return could be under review (which isn’t an audit), or it could still be processing.

          I’m very surprised to hear that a tax professional would tell you that you were being audited.

          Reply

      • ok thank you for responding! They have me completely stressed out over it – thinking I did something wrong on turbo tax.

        Reply

        • Remember even if you ever get audited which we have and I didn’t have receipts but wrote it on a calendar that year the IRS does accept that as proof. So always keep a calendar for the year of taxes stowed away. Just a tip

          Reply

  20. For all of you people waiting on your tax refund and have been checking where’s my refund I filed early probably the 1st of February and it was accepted it hit my bank today. And the IRS website still says being processed check your bank account

    Reply

  21. March 8th 2018 would be 21 days from February 15. So should I receive a direct deposit soon? An IRS tax rep told me to wait 30-45 days from February 15. This is confusing.

    Reply

  22. Hello, I filed my taxes on March 5th. No status bars and that’s puzzling. Just says “We have received your tax return and it is being processed.” No tax topic next to the refund amount. I’m not claiming any earned income credit or child tax credits. What do you think is the holdup? Are they running behind?

    Reply

      • We filled on Feb 7th you said it doesn’t start until the 15th all we are seeing is processing and 152 we are technically at 21 days from the 15th are tax guy doesn’t even know what’s going on you seem to know alot when. Should we expect it

        Reply

        • You should expect it around today. Remember, 90% of returns are 21 day, so that means 10% (around 30 million people) take longer than that each year.

          Reply

          • I had to verify my idenity on Feb 18 and mines still saying we have received your return and its being processed!! Do you know what i need to do? Please help!

          • If you actually had identity verification, you can usually see your return delayed about 45 days.

  23. well I filed on 1/22 and it is 3/28 i am way past the 21 days. Is there a reason for that? anyone who comments that is within 21 days you have that reason… “you are still in 21 days” but as for me i am not! so whats the excuse? it said still pending, my transcripts state my cycle posted is 20180605 and my remittance date is 4/15/18 what does all that mean??

    Reply

      • We filed 1/29, waited our 21 days and still showed we were processing. We called on Feb 23 and they said it would be another 30 to 60 days of processing before we would be given an update because my husband and I are both in college!! Still have no idea when we will even receive our taxes!! It’s B.S. if you ask me!

        Reply

          • We are trying to figure out how to do this and tried the paycheck check up calculator. Our daughter will be starting college next year and we struggled to figure out how to change our withholdings to the right amount (my husband works two full time jobs, I work & we get EIC). Is hiring an accountant just to help us figure out what we should have on our W4’s to avoid an overpayment a good idea?

  24. Hey . I filed my taxes on 2/9/2018 and I had my bars up than a week later , I check the wmr and my bars was gone and said still being process. No tax topic . No letter from the irs . I called and a computer I answer the same reply as the wmr. And it’s still in process

    Reply

  25. I filed 2/4 and accept same day I got a letter saying I was under review do nothing, then I finally got some transcripts that’s said they didn’t start processing it til march 5 it had a code 570 2018705 when will I received my money its been almost 2 months smh

    Reply

    • I filed on 1/29, accepted the same day. Mine is in review. My letter date was March 2nd. Still no refund. I talked to a tax representative today, which informed me she had put a note on my account. She said they should resolve any issues(if any) and give me my refund or notify me of anything further.

      Reply

  26. I filed 1/29 and still nothing . called in feb and the irs said everything was fine just under review. Then i got a tax advocat and she said some of my earnings were not released from previous employer so i faxed it all ove. Well its now april and i am still waiting. This is so stupid

    Reply

  27. I e-filed on December 31, 2017. I applied for a loan and received it within 3 day. Then I received a notice by mail letting me know my refund was being Delayed Reference# 1541 and that I didn’t have to do anything, I only have to wait 60 days from when the letter was mailed which was February 7, 2018. Now I’m 3 days shy from the 60 day delay should I prepare for another delay or will the IRS keep there word an release my refund.

    Reply

    • Error code 1541 typically means there is an offset – meaning for some reason your refund is being taken to pay a debt of some kind. You should really follow up with the IRS.

      Reply

  28. My taxes were efiled 02/20 got a letter from irs 03/19, I called and was told I was under review. I have been filing the same for 10 years einc and child dependent, They told me if I haven’t received my refund by may 16th to give them a call back. What is going on???

    Reply

    • On any given year, around 0.10% of returns are randomly selected for review. Maybe you simply were unlucky?

      Reply

  29. We filed 1/29. Everything is the same as the last few years. On April 2nd we still hadn’t received our refund. We called and after hours trying to reach someone we were told we were “under 60 day review with no notes”. We asked what that meant and she says “it’s cause of path act, call us back June 9th if you don’t have it then”. We asked why it was taking so long or if we did something wrong and she said “no everything seems fine it’s just how long it takes.”

    I wanted to cry.

    Reply

    • Same! I am an independent student living on low income with one part-time job. I filed in January too, was put under review, and called twice to try to find out what was going on (once every 60 days). I am reliant on my tax return for rent and food money. I’m so upset and discouraged and no one can tell my why this review is taking so long! But with my last call they said they sent a referral to see what was up because it “should have benn done by now” which “reset” the period for when I was allowed to call back to mid July… I just don’t understand I don’t even have that much financial information so what could be taking so long

      Reply

  30. I did my taxes March 12th, they were accepted that day. It’s now April 11th and nothing. H&R Block said the irs accepted them. On the IRS site it says they are being processed and will be given a date in time. So then I called the irs and the lady seemed clueless, she said it doesn’t say anything’s wrong but to check and see if I get a letter in the mail which she thinks will happen and it might be over insurance but she said she wasn’t sure cause it didn’t say anything when she pulled it up? Idk I’m just really comfused and want my money and idk what to do 🙁

    Reply

    • I would wait another week or so and call them back. Make sure you clearly state it has been 21 days and no update. Just a note that 10% of returns go past 21 days, and it’s normal.

      Reply

    • I had h& r block do my state rental refund I haven’t receive my check yet I filed April 17 2018

      Reply

  31. I submitted my taxes Jan 28th 2018, was supposed to recieve Feb 21st 2018… did not recieve .. i called on Feb 26th lady told me i was selected for a review that i would be recieving it 21 days from the review start date of Feb 5th….. If i dont see it by March 9th to call back… i did not recieve it… i called again on March 12th the lady i talked to this time said that my review didnt start until March 6th that i should expect it by April 18th… call back if it dont….. I need my money seriously….. I have alot to catch up. i depend heavily on it. IRS has no clue what they are doing and on different pages. how does a review start on 2 different months????
    I claimed my kids and worked all year, I bought a house in 2017 was the only change from previous years… needless to say im pissed and a friend of mine told me she had a review few years ago didnt get nothing until september……. shoot me now. tired of the run arounds.

    Reply

  33. I’m still waiting..somewhat patiently, filed on 1/29.. glad to see I’m not the only one still in the dark about my refund. Relieved review letter March 8th. Waiting till May 7th before I start to loose it. Tax season has never been such a pain in the neck, definitely changing my dependents to 0 after this fiasco.

    Reply

  34. I filed my taxes Jan 31st and here it is April 28th and still nothing… Still being processed is what it says I have never had any problems till this year ….

    Reply

  35. I filed my taxes February 12th and it is still being processed. I received a letter from the IRS saying that my refund was randomly chosen for further review (probably because I claimed EITC and ACTC). Since I received this letter on March 13, I have 60 days from that day for my return to be processed. So if anyone received a letter like mine, you have 60 days from the date on the letter to receive your taxes, if you don’t then contact the IRS and talk to them. When I go to “where’s my refund?”, I also receive the Tax Topic 152. It’s just so frustrating because last year I didn’t have to go through this mess!

    Reply

    • Yea i recieved same deal 60 day review which was up today so i called and was told by the rep she put a enquiry into that department and that it could take up to 60 additional days for a responce or release of my refund..

      Reply

  36. I filed February 19th 2018, I still have not got my refund, where’s my refund says 151 number I called irs they said takes 60 to 90 days yet nothing on the site has changed but the irs says it’s under review this has now been 2 weeks later and still nothing it’s now may 3rd this is redicululous

    Reply

  37. Mine says it was mailed april 13th and i have to wait till may 11th before i can call. It is may 6th. I find it hard to believe its taking the mail that long so either the irs is lieing or the mail man took my refund. Either way the government is screwing me twice since the first time was taking taxes period.

    Reply

  38. We filed feb4 an after 21 days we called an they said wait 60days an here we are may 7 an still waiting all we ever get when we call is wait 60 days an on the irs app says still processing smh this is very much rediculous smh

    Reply

  39. My return was accepted by the IRS through efile on March 17th. It’s still processing? I try to call but keep getting an automated system. No one to talk to see why.

    Reply

  40. the IRS is bunch of assholes im so irritated i been on review since march 19th and they stated its wait till may 10th intell my review is over smh this here they got they refund but want to hold everyone’s hostage its crazy

    Reply

  41. My 60 days for the review was up on May 7th. I called the irs and they connected me with an advocate; I was told the advocate would contact me on May 10th. I contacted the irs again late afternoon on the 10th and was told I’d been assigned an dvocate, but they had 3-5 days to call me. The irs gave me the name and phone number of the advocate I was assigned. I called that phone number and left a message. Today is the 13th and I STILL haven’t heard from the advocate. This is beyond ridiculous and putting my family in a very tough situation. Has anybody who’s been under review received their refund this year?

    Reply

  42. I filed the last week of February and here it is May 17 and all the IRS number tells me we cannot give you any information at this time. It’s really frustrating cause I needed that money not just now but a month ago. I don’t know why they can’t give me any information about MY money? Can someone please tell me why this is going on?!

    Reply

  43. I filed on 3/5/18. As today 5/21/18 no check or deposit on my acct.
    I checked the IRS website everyday no updates i seem the same message for the last few weeks refund pending. This is really frustrating….

    Reply

  44. IRS required my wife as the primary, to answer a series of ridiculous questions regarding last THEEE years of tax information and then decided that she/we must be scammers. Now required to do an IN PERSON interview with this inept government agency. Most sad and disturbing dealing with these morons. I verified my identity by answering EVERY question (even the absurd ones) they asked via online portal and at the end end it said “sorry, that’s not good enough”. What total BS.

    Reply

  46. Well I filed Jan. 23 and was accepted on the 29th. It went under review and I received a letter with a 151 topic. So I sent in my information, everything they ask for. They received it march 19th. I called irs in May 18th she transferred me to an examinator. He told me everything thing I sent is accurate and I should be receiving a deposit by Friday may 25th. Its now may 26th on a Saturday and my taxes still hasn’t got looked at. Its so ridiculous when me and my family is living from hotel to hotel with nothing now. Me working isn’t helping. I need my tax money frfr.

    Reply

  47. I am having the same problem my was accepted on 12/19/17 on 2/18 said it was under review and would take 60dys then another letter came and another 45dys. now on the transcript say 570 code addition account action pending and 971 code say notice issued 3/5/18. When I called the Irs they said another 60dys which will end on July 1/18. The IRS say that it was not anything that I needed to do every time I call them I ask them do I need to give them anything and they said no. It has been more then 100dys and still no date so I am waiting until July 1 to see what lie they are going to tell me next. They had to give a refer to the reviewer and that is why they said it took the last 60dys for them to get in contact with me or not. This is the first time this is happen to me, I also claim child credit like I did last year and before so it has not change. So if anyone know what is going on please let me know. They told me that I could have contact the tax advocate if I wanted to but I did not have a light bill, car bill, water bill.

    Reply

  49. I had efiled my joint tax return at the end of January with an injured spouse form because I owe back child support. I waited and waited, finally called May 10th because it had said delay in processing. They told me to call back in a month if I hadn’t heard anything. I’m now five days away from the day to call and still nothing. Last year it only took two months and we filed on the last day plus had to correct a mess up on a SSN for my son. This is so frustrating.

    Reply

  50. Filed the first part of February and over 4 months later still waiting for my meager refund. State responded within two weeks.

    Reply

  51. update: I call the IRS 6/9/18 and one lady told me that I will have to pay some money back for last year because she said I had put the wages in the wrong place on my return. I told her that I had fill it out last year and she said that they were not checking the return last year. They were going to send me a letter saying that. I was not satisfied with that answer so I call again in another department of the IRS and this lady told me that the reason why I had not gotten my refund was they was going to send me a letter explaining what they needed for me to do. She said what I needed was to file the form 1040X, schedule C,SE and send it back but just wait until I get the letter from them which should be in the next week or to. So I am going to wait until I get the letter from them. I just miss and put my wages in the wrong space where I should have put them in the self employment space instead of the wages spot. I hope this will help someone else. I will let you know what happen, in the mean time good luck everyone.

    Reply

  52. I e-filed and it was accepted 3/22/18. I check on the IRS refund status app on my phone everyday. It says that it still is being processed!

    Reply

  53. I filed on January 18,2018 had moved to first bar at first then the Path Act.thing then bars disappeared and it’s been stuck in still being processed since late January,called Irs they said they were verifying my Credits,Wages,and Dependants,and My School Credits,All was verified on June 4,2018 got a letter in the mail I needed to call in and Verify my Identity,I did that on March 27,2018 the nice Rep said I should receive my Refund in approximately 9 weeks today is June 21,2018 nothing yet still ,the Irs has placed me on a 45 day hold twice and a 60 day hold in which all have ran out so my tax preparer called them,they put in a referral,on June 4th 2018 the Irs said to release my refund,was told it was now in the Check Clearinghouse Dept.(Wth) well to make a long story short, as of June 11th 2018 they have placed me back under another 60 day hold.This shit is so pathetic,and ridiculous, I do not want to get a Tax Advocate,because they also are so swamped and they are not calling any one back and then once you get one the Irs,will not talk to you any more so what the hell to do??? I think My next step is to write our Congressman or State Reps.this shit can drag out till Doomsday,after your time has exalted,they in return place you back on some more holding time/days .

    Reply

  54. I filed on February 2, 2018. Got a letter in March saying I was under review. It is now June 22, 2018 and still under review. I called and they said if I don’t hear from them by the end of July 2018, to call back again. This is ridiculous. If we owe them money you can bet we wouldn’t get away with holding it from them!!!!! Crooks !!!

    Reply

    • Well it’s july 17th I I too still haven’t received my refund. I also received a letter and mailed in all my documents. I’m still in processing. One thing your right about is they are crooks. My boyfriend and I filed at the same time, he received his refund in february, guess why.? He owed the irs, no wonder they processed his quick and he filed child tax credits with our 2 kids. I too filed child tax credits with my oldest son and boy are they delaying me. I also recenter received a letter staying that I should here back from them by September 28th that is when they make the decision to give me my refund or not.
      I should also note the first letter they sent, they wanted to give me $0.00, but I have all my documents so hopefully all goes well.
      Good luck if your still waiting,
      Hope your outcome is good and you get ur money soon

      Reply

  55. I i filed my taxes february 15th 2018receive a letter in april stated that my refund will be held until further review contact them several morer time i was told i have to wait 60days at the end of the 60days nothing still change i was told by one other person they didnt have no w 2 to call back later and was told they had one i have been waiting 4months its very frustrating

    Reply

  56. I had to send my return in by mail back on March 2018 Still waiting for my return. I had Identity theft that accured in 2013. Ever since then I can’t get my return back in a timely manner. I still don’t have my return. I was assigned a tax advocate well over a month ago. I still have no Idea when I can expect my return..She can’t seem to help me. She has no answer as to why it is taking months just to process. I have provided my Identity a long time ago. Then it seems as if the IRS can’t seem to retrieve there own pin number or identifying number. I have been treated as if I stole my own idenity from myself and from them . I keep getting the run around. Since my identity was stolen when I filed electronically in 2013 It seems to me that I had to pay back the IRS for the money that was stolen from them and me, because the IRS has made adjustments every year until they received the amount that was stolen from them and me. I had to pay it back if you ask me
    with the adjustments that was made in the last 4 years it has totaled my return amount that was due to me back in 13. Now it takes them about 9 months to a year to process my refund with no interest. In the mean time you could have all the hardships you want. The United States Government does not care if you have had your Identity stolen from them and me and my child. I pay taxes to get miss treated and spoken too like a criminal and as if I was crazy. This is a sad time for the United States. Makes me not want to be a proud American. There is no one that can help you. The IRS answer’s to no one. And they do whatever they feel like.

    Reply

  57. Filed towards the end of feb of this yr(2018) and still waiting til Jan/2019 for them to review all the pcents they requested

    Reply

  58. It is now January 16, 2019 amd I have yet to receive last years taxes. I called several times and still not direct answer. I have been told mails have been sent out but never received. If I wouldn’t call I would never know what is going on with my taxes.

    Reply

  59. Hi everyone I filed my husband and myself married filing joint through turbo tax I was told the irs wouldn’t be accepting the refunds until 01/30/2019 and they woukd hold my Federal and state because they still didn’t have all of the state forms and we would be in the frint of the line so when I gotan email the next day from the irs stating that had received our federal tax refund and accepted it and where proccessing it to allow up to 21 days it was a nice supri2 so I guess they are. accepting federal returns early they accepted it on the 17th it is even showing on where’s my refund as recieved and proccessing so hopefully it wont be a dely and they will release them by feb 15th we claimed eic and ctc we also provided our dl and id info when we filed this year to help prevent fraud. If you file early maybe you will still get it in the 21day timeframe by feb 15th if you claim the credits and add your dl or id info when filing. Good luck I know we all need some positive and uplifting news with the partial shutdown so I thought Ild let everyone know.

    Reply

    • Hi I filed mine on Jan 11 and it was accepted on thr 14 but I also have both credits so we eill see how long it actually takes. I wish everyone luck and have a great day.

      Reply

  61. I filed last year(2018) had to wait for the earned income credit for 2 kids and it was fine till day before my refund was due i got a letter saying i was being audited… I spent a year sending them everything to prove my kids are mine and live with me everything they needed and i still have not recieved my refund from 2018. The last letter i got said i should hesr from them on January 29th 2019. This is complete BS. Now its filing time again and i have no idea if i just file or what .. Anyone have any advice on audits taking this long ?

    Reply

  62. Hello..
    I submitted my return e-file on the 28th of Jan … as of today the IRS has not accepted my return. Is anyone else experiencing the same?

    Reply

    • I filed on the 18th and it took 5 days for the email stating they accepted mine. Just have to wait longer to get mine because of the credits on mine.

      Reply

  63. Me and my husband file January 16. January 25 it was accepted I had the bar saying received now as of 2/3/2019 it is your tax return is being delayed did anyone else get that message?

    Reply

  64. I efiled my federal taxes on jan 21 2019. Was accepted jan 22 2019 status still says being processed still not approved. Bit state was approved and gave me a date should i call

    Reply

    • 21 days from January 28, unless you have PATH due to EITC or ACTC, then it’s 21 days from February 15.

      Reply

    • Now my message says refund still being processed date will be provided when aviable tax code 252 is that bad

      Reply

  66. I e-filed January 28, 2019 thru H&R Block and my Federal & State returns are still showing “pending”. I don’t claim any of the things that would cause the delay for tax credits. Should I be worried? Can I still anticipate a refund within 21 day?

    Reply

  67. I filed on on January 29th, and I’m still waiting for my return to simply be accepted. For the last 15 years, it seems it’s been accepted within 48 hours, but this year, it’s been over a week with no updates to the status. Any thoughts? My only one is because I updated which email to send it to through HRBlock.

    Reply

  68. I filed on 1/15/19 accepted 1/17/19 had one bar saying received, bars disappeared and I received reference code 9001. I waited 21 days called IRS they said I should receive a letter didn’t get letter. So today system updated with a take action refund will be delayed with code 1541 is this a bad thing? Have anyone else had this problem?

    Reply

    • Your 21 days started 1/28/19, not from when you filed… by calling the IRS you just delayed things. So, now you’re going to need to wait for your letter (or call again), do identity validation, and that’s going to delay things quite a bit.

      Reply

  69. Filed on Jan 22 accepted 23 Rd. And said accepted with topic 152 cause I claimed eitc and child credit. Two days later bars are gone no topic 152 and says still processing. Can someone tell me if this means I’m being audited or what. I can’t afford to hAve this refund overly delayed. I’m worried to death

    Reply

    • Don’t worry, just be patient and wait.

      You might also look at adjusting your W4 withholding so that you don’t get a refund next year, but you get bigger paychecks this year. That way you’re not so strapped for cash.

      Reply

    • I’m worried also Filed 1/21 was accepted 1/22 bars stated accepted and now processing after the PATH NOTICE DISAPPEARED ON 2/15 No bars and it says it’s being processed. I don’t owe anything but I am worried. I haven’t received a notice or letter so I guess that’s good.

      Reply

  70. I filled 1/26 got accepted 1/28 I got my bars in where my refund but I keep seeing people say they got something sayin a delay so you think I’m okay

    Reply

  71. I got a bar that said accepted and then the next day the bars are gone and it says tax topic 152 with info about the PATH act…..should I be concerned?

    Reply

    • Did you have EITC or ACTC? If so, nope – you’re just going to be waiting until the end of February or March for your return.

      Reply

  72. I filed and initially I seen the bars that said that my taxes were accepted. Then a couple days later the bars are gone and there is a paragraph talking about the PATH Act and to see Tax Topic 152. I had a co worker tell me that is what happened to her when she got audited. Should i be concerned?

    Reply

  73. I filed and was accepted on Jan. 28th. I received a letter yesterday telling me I needed to verify my identity. I did not file last year I did not work. Jackson Hewitt said everything was fine or they wouldn’t have accepted it. Irs website says no info on refund status but JH says accepted. I’m still worried.

    Reply

  74. I filed 1/24/19 and was accepted 1/25/19. I do not have EITC or Child Tax Credit but am still seeing that my refund is being processed and code 152. Any ideas? I’ve always received mine well before the 21 day mark but expected a little delay this year due to the shutdown. However, the “Your tax return is still being processed” on the IRS website has been concenred.

    Reply

      • Is “Your tax return is still being processed” standard with it being so close to 21 days? I guess I just assumed it would say “approved” or something along those lines and have an estimated refund date.

        Reply

        • It will say approved about 2-5 days before you get your direct deposit and date. And remember, even though you were accepted early, the IRS didn’t start processing returns until 1/28. So, you should probably see something near the end of the week. Check back and tell us what happens!

          Reply

          • Hopefully I am concerned for no reason. I’ll give it a little longer and will definitely check back and let you know what happens! Thanks!

          • My mom filed two months ago and its still saying its being processed. How much longer do she have to wait?

          • Did she have EITC or ACTC? If so, even though she filed early, her return wasn’t even going to start to be processed until February 15 at the earliest. So, right around now is when she should expect her refund.

  76. Hey guys my refund no longer has bars it says something TAX topic 152 I’m very worried because I have no bars .. or once said accepted I’m the beginning will I get audited?

    Reply

    • Mine did the same thing. Usually when this happens it switches to complete within a day or two. This year its been > a week. I finally called them today after I ordered my 2018 Transcripts. At the bottom of my Account Transcripts for this year it said “570 Additional Account Action Pending”. She said that mine are on hold for 45 Days from March 11th, 2019. Random. Just to Verify.

      Reply

      • mine is the same thing going on i just hope there no other problems i was like i no i did my taxes the same way for the last 4 years so when i called them today they said they have me under a review for 45 days and that they were going to send me on the 11th of march to explain to me wats going on

        Reply

  77. Me and my husband filed married and jointly with ctc. This is the first year we have to wait so long for our return. The last 2 years we have filed weeks before they accepted them and still received our refund by the 12th of February. Now this year it was accepted on the 17th of January but still has the code to where we have to wait till mid feb to check for our refund! It’s been 21 days plus some. The government shutdown that happened sure has things slowed down! Some people are depending on their refund unlike what the government has been saying “no one depends on their return”; “returns are not essential” I have reframed from calling the irs for my refund because I am one of those people who is in need of my refund and calling just slows the process down!

    Reply

    • It’s a bummer, but you can change this for 2019. If you adjust your withholding, you can minimize or eliminate your tax return, and you get bigger paychecks all year. It’s a different way of thinking about your money, but it also make your tax return irrelevant.

      Reply

  78. Hi,

    Efiled 2/3 and as today it still pending, not accepted or rejected yet. Not sure why it’s taking so long. I am claiming EIC and Child tax credit

    Reply

      • Hrblock , I contacted them and this is their response: “The release of the forms from the IRS was slated for the 2/15 (today). As of now we have not received any information about the release and await to hear from the IRS. I regret any inconvenience to you but we also have to wait on the IRS” no idea what forms they’re talking about. No help at all

        Reply

        • I wrote about this exact issue in the article above and here: https://www.forbes.com/sites/robertfarrington/2019/01/30/yes-your-tax-refund-will-likely-be-delayed/

          Basically, due to the IRS shutdown, the IRS hasn’t finished building out all the forms required to eFile. H&R Block accepted your information, and has simply been holding it on their servers waiting for the IRS to be able to accept it.

          Today was supposed to be the day they finish the work, but H&R Block says it’s not done yet.

          Bottom line is, you’re still waiting.

          Any insights on what you had on your return that is holding it up? Side hustle or small business income? Real estate income?

          Reply

  79. I filed mine on Jan 28th, my wife’s son 3 days later, we both got same PATH message and he’s was in bank Feb 6th, mine still says PATH message. At the beginning it said around Feb 20th, his is there mine isn’t, what gives.

    Reply

  80. I filed 1/21 got accepted 1/22 had bars and info on left side of wmr website on 2/6 bars disappear with still processing refund, date when available tax topic 152 but all my info still there on left side, last four of SSN,hoh,and amount, my question when info still there is that good because a lot of peoples info gone with same message. Thank you

    Reply

  81. I file my taxes the 21st of Jan. Got adapted the 22nd of Jan. The the 11 th of Jan got a letter had to do the verify my id. He said it was good. But now. Up to 9 weeks. Does it take 9 weeks to get it back

    Reply

  82. Ok…so I filed Feb 1st with Jackson Hewitt. Through their website it said the IRS acknowledged the return. Is that the same as accepting them? So where’s my refund showed no updates until late wednesday night/early thursday morning. I talked to 2 seperate JH reps and they both confirmed that my return was accpeted and processed and funds were waiting in the IRS bank to be disbursed. I am on the PATH ACT waiting list BUT I have yet to see a PATH message on WMR and WMR is only saying they were accepted and are processing. So….are the JH reps correct and I’m just waiting for disbursement or is it still processing? Thank you for replying to everyone! I’m sure our collective impatience is annoying!!!

    Reply

  83. I efiled my taxes through Turbo Tax 1/28 and it has been accepted up until yesterday 2/15 .. Now all I’m seeing is that its being delayed and to contact IRS.. Should I be worried about anything?

    Reply

  84. My return was accepted on the 28th of January. I have been tracking it and it has always said processing. Now it says I need to “take action” because my refund is being delayed. What action is it asking me to take? And does anybody know what this means?

    Reply

    • If you didn’t have an error code on WMR, you are probably getting a letter in the mail. Look out for it and follow the instructions.

      Reply

        • 1541? That has to do with PATH Act and you can expect your return 21 days after Feb 15 – which lines up with March 4.

          Reply

          • What is the PATH Act? I just got off the phone with them and they told me it was under review but did not know why and that the date was set for March 4th, but give them 45 days from March 4th before I contact them unless I get a letter.

          • PATH Act applies to anyone that has EITC or ACTC. It’s a law that says the IRS isn’t even allowed to process your return until February 15. At that time is when the 21 day window started – which puts you at March 4.

            And they’re telling you 45 days because they don’t want you calling again when there is no issue.

  85. It’s been 26 days since my taxes have been accepted. I am claiming one dependent but I have no idea why it’s taking so long. I have received my state back but still waiting on my federal!

    Reply

  86. I have received my state refund but my federal filed on 1/21 accepted 1/23 has had processing with 152 topic and now it says there is a delay with a reference number 1541 , what does this mean ? Should I be worried

    Reply

  87. I filed through an online tax service. My return was filed 01/18/2019, it was accepted by the IRS on 01/22/2019. It is a simple return with standard deductions. I have been waiting 26 days for it to be processed.

    Reply

  88. I filed on 1-27-19 and it was accepted 1-28-19. I have EIC, TurboTax has a deposit date for 2-18-19,but still im waiting. Will it be the end of the month although I was given a date? The calendar is no help for EIC filers.

    Reply

      • will they update the website before processing the refunds? I had a return accepted jan 28th i do have the ACTC so it should update 21 days from February 15th? or will i just receive my refund direct deposit on the march 4th week? Thanks

        Reply

        • You usually see an updated message a few days before your deposit. So keep an eye out next week.

          Reply

          • I filed on Feb 11th and received the same messages regarding Topic 152 like a lot of the others. Finally today, I got a message that my refund will deposit on March 6.

  89. I did my taxes on the 1/27 and it was accepted on 1/28. When I went to “where’s my refund” even in the beginning after e-filing through hr block, it always showed

    “We cannot provide any information about your refund.
    If you electronically filed a complete and accurate tax return you should receive your refund in about 21 days from the received date. If you mailed your return please allow 6 weeks.

    Please read the following information related to your tax situation:
    Tax Topic 152, Refund Information”

    Should I call tomorrow on the 2/20 if I do not see anything change?

    Reply

    • It sounds like H&R Block hasn’t even transmitted your return to the IRS yet. And depending on what you had on your return, that makes sense. The IRS is still finishing up work on programming for various tax return items, including almost everything business related, trust related, widows, and more.

      What did you have on your tax return?

      Reply

  90. Hi, I just filed in Jan, 2019 on the 14th. I have yet to receive mine. I file the same way every year, nothing changes and I feel like I have been treated like the criminal. The shut down was NOT my fault. This makes no sense that us TAX paying people ,that actually do what’s right, get penalized.

    Reply

  91. If I filed on Jan 28th, 2019 and when Will I get my refund with additional child tax credits? I’m still seeing a still processing and it’s been 21 days.

    Reply

  92. Wow I’ve read mostly all the recent comments and my return was accepted on the 28th of Jan. thru JH. I been checking WMR and my status has went from received to “Take Action” There is a delay in processing your tax return reference 1541…. I’ve filed EITC so should I call to take action or just wait for updates?

    Reply

    • Our opinion is that you should wait until at least March 4 before doing anything. Given that you have EITC, your return didn’t even start processing until 2/15 – making March 4 the 21 day mark.

      Reply

      • Thank you for your feedback! It’s frustrating not being able to get through to an agent as it is so I will just wait some more???‍♀️

        Reply

    • That’s our opinion if you have EITC. Otherwise you run the risk of increasing your delay by contacting the IRS and getting flagged for ID verification.

      Reply

  94. I filed my return early and got accepted on the 14 of January now the it’s says I have a 45 day hold and a letter in the mail for March 4th I don’t understand when will I receive my refund I also claimed my two children when I called the IRS said I will get a some type of letter and call if I don’t receive my refund by April 19

    Reply

    • You claimed the EITC or ACTC. That means even if you filed early, the IRS doesn’t process your tax return until 2/15. That’s called the PATH Act. So, if you do the math of 21 days from 2/15, you get March 4. That’s why they are telling you this and that’s why it takes so long.

      Reply

    • It’s not a race – it’s a legal or custody question.

      You have to prove to the IRS you were eligible to claim a dependent. So, if someone (say an ex) claimed them and they weren’t supposed to, when you file your return accurately, the IRS will ask both of you to prove it. He/she who can will get the credit. It takes a bunch of time, and the other person will have to pay back any extra they received incorrectly.

      That’s why it’s best to simply discuss the matter before filing.

      Reply

  96. I had filed my tax return on January 21, 2019, had both state and federal accepted on the 22, and already received my state return on Feb. 15th. I am still waiting on my federal tax return though it says it’s “being processed”. I have a lot of bills to pay and have already gotten deferments for certain things and can’t wait another weak. I also work full-time as a caregiver for a disabled veteran and don’t have any gas money to get them to their appointments at the VA and barely have any money for food. Should I be getting paid in the next few days or do I have to wait longer? What’s going on?

    Reply

  97. I filed on 1/29/2019 it was accepted and now my bars are gone. I still see all the info on the left but the generic message of still being processed is there. I do have dependents I claimed. Do I need to worry?? Or TRY to call the IRS? How do I know if something is wrong other than claiming my kids and having to wait the additional time?

    Reply

    • If you have EITC or ACTC, you’re waiting until March 4. If something is wrong, you’ll get a letter in the mail. It doesn’t do any good to call before March 4, as they’ll tell you to wait.

      Reply

  98. I file my returns on the 28 of Jan and got accepted the next day.. it first was saying it’s was processing with topic 152.. now it saying my refund is being delay.. I claim my three children under the age of 10..

    Reply

    • You’ll get a letter in the mail, but you can call as well. Chances are you have some type of dependent verification.

      Reply

  99. I file my return on Feb 1 got a an email the same day that it was accepted by IRS.I have been checking where’s my refund and its not telling me anything its not even showing me the bars of being processed. Yes I claimed ACT, but never had this kind of delay. What should I do?

    Reply

    • You should wait until March 4 before doing anything. With ACTC, your refund wasn’t even started until 2/15, and then you wait 21 days from there.

      Reply

      • I filed feb 1. Through h&r block and got accepted the same day my bars went away on the 22nd now its just saying my return is still being processed a refund date will be available once processed with tt 152 info shoyld I be worried? I claimed my dependents

        Reply

        • Did you have EITC or ACTC – not just claiming your dependents, but those specific tax credits? If so, you’re going to be waiting until around March 4.

          Reply

  100. Hi I have file on January 24 and I have the EIC and at first I was getting a Path Message when I use WMR website on the 15th it turned to being processed how long do I have to wait to receive my refund to hit my direct diposit?

    Reply

  101. If I receive the CTC but not the EITC yet I’m showing code 1541 and it says my return is delayed and to take action should I just wait until March 4th to see what happens or is this likely meaning that I’m being audited?? I filed on 2/3/19

    Reply

    • Yes, I would wait until March 4. But also, your 21 days didn’t start until you were accepted – so 2/3 or 2/4. You still have a few days to wait on that timelines as well.

      Reply

  102. If I’m getting the reference code1541 does that likely mean I’m being audited. We get CTC but we don’t qualify for the EITC and my husband also owes a little over $800 to the IRS. Are we just going to have to wait until March 4th for a refund or is it likely we are being audited.

    Reply

    • It’s highly unlikely you’re being audited. But I’m confused, when you say your husband owes $800, are you getting a refund, or do you owe? Did you file separately, or is this a past debt?

      Reply

  103. I’m having the same issue I filed in January they got accepted on January 16th n I still haven’t seen my refund. My bars on WMR are gone and it just says it’s being processed. I’ve been waiting days for that to update. I called and they said they don’t see anything wrong that it can take a week or so longer after the 15th. But I’ve never had to wait this long. Does anyone how how often the WMR updates??

    Reply

    • WMR updates daily. Do you have EITC or ACTC? If so, your return just started processing on 2/15, and you should receive your refund around March 4.

      Reply

  104. I am also getting the generic message that my return is being processed, and there are no tax codes. Mine was accepted 1/17/02019, however I do have EIC and ACTC. My only concern is that at least four people I know who filed the same way are getting their refunds tomorrow. Some even filed after me.

    Reply

    • Due to EITC and ACTC, you’re waiting until around March 4. Doesn’t matter when you filed, your return wasn’t even starting to process until 2/15. It’s the law.

      Reply

  105. Return was accepted on 1/14/19. It is now 2/21/19 and I have not received my refund from the federal gov’t. State was rcvd on 2/4/19. I do have the ACTC, but others have gotten theirs, so it’s simply annoying.

    Reply

  106. Filed the 27th through turbo tax. Accepted the 28th. I’m not claiming dependents or EITC. It’s been over 21 days and WMR says its being processed date not available. It’s a bigger refund. But it’s oretty black and white simple. Why is mine being delayed?

    Reply

    • It’s impossible to say – did you have business income with 199a deduction? Did you have a trust? Rental property? All of these things have barely been finished at the IRS on 2/15.

      Also, remember, 10% take longer than 21 days, and that is about 30 million people.

      Reply

  107. Do you by chance know if you file an injured spouse form with your return will the delay be longer? I’m getting the delay code 1541 and yes we have kids and I believe the other credit as well…just looking for some info? Thanks

    Reply

  108. still no date does anyone know when we will be getting them i filed the 24th got my state 3 weeks ago still not even a date for fed. i have the child credit but so does my x with his other kids and he already got his back… whats the hold up cant even offer a date??

    Reply

    • You will see a date post about 3-5 days before your direct deposit. So, assuming you’re going to get it around March 4, you’ll see a day around the end of Feb or early March.

      Reply

  109. I filed mine back on January 23rd and was accepted on the same day. Today is Feb. 22nd. What is the hold up? I filed single and no dependents.

    Reply

  110. I filed my taxes on 1/31/19 and was accepted within 20 minutes. It is now 22 days and still nothing. It just says that my refund was received and is being processed. Getting really concerned.

    Reply

  111. I had filed the 28 and it was accepted on turbotax it says it’s being processe some people already got they refund and they file way after mines

    Reply

    • It all depends on what you have on your tax return. No two people are alike, so some people get their return sooner than others.

      Reply

  112. We filed January 28th and i usually get my taxes within 2 weeks.. nope. Not this year. Still waiting and the bar hasn’t changed on WMR, still says processing when usually it would say accepted and when it’s expected to get to us. I’m just wondering how long this will take and if we end up getting delayed for a year like a few of you, I’ll drop kick every one of them.

    Reply

  113. I filed 1/22/19. I know it was extra early and during the shutdown. My return was accepted on 1/28/19. It is now 2/22 and it says my refund is still processing. IRS website originally said to expect my refund on 2/12, well that didn’t happen. Now it doesn’t say when to expect it, only that it is still in process. I have tried calling everyday for a week and call volumes are too high to be able to get through to speak to someone.

    Reply

  115. My husband and I got married mid-year 2018; however, he was purchasing his health insurance through the marketplace. Once we got married he did not qualify for the tax credits on the marketplace, so he canceled that insurance policy. This year we had to include all the credits he received in a form and used the alternative calculation for the year of marriage in order to reduce the total amount we needed to repay. The form was provided in the tax filing software we used and was much easier than I expected because it basically automatically calculated amounts.
    Has this been the cause of any delays for the 2018 tax year, 2019 tax season? We received our state tax refund a few days ago.

    Reply

  116. Would the 2 credits (ones not processing til 2/15) cause a 570 action pending (frozen account) on your irs transcript? My transcript shows the credit we thought we were gonna get and shows accepted on 2/18 then the very last line is a 570 action pending with a date of 3-11-2019. Doing the math, march 11 IS 21 days from 2/18 our acceptance date. Just trying to make sense of it all. Thanks

    Reply

  117. Check your WMR Pathers. Went from just saying, “processing” to Two Bars today with DDD for Feb 27 if not in bank by March 4th. Call your bank to see if they received your refund. So good luck all. This has been a crazy ride. Last year I didn’t receive the Additional child but I did get the child tax and didn’t have to go thru all this. But I’m changing my info on our w-4s.. for sure!!!

    Reply

  118. Mine was accepted 2/3. We did not claim EIC or ACTC. And mine still says processing. My stepdaughter got hers back Friday and she claimed the EIC. How long should I wait until I call since I don’t have those things claimed? But no date for a return. It keeps changing. One day the IRS says the code 152. Then the next no code at all and just says it’s processing.

    Reply

    • Tax Topic 152 means you’re getting a refund: https://thecollegeinvestor.com/17495/common-irs-wheres-my-refund-questions-and-errors/

      Do you have a small business (schedule C), real estate (schedule E), a trust, or anything with health care credit repayment? If so, the IRS didn’t even start accepting those types of returns until around Feb 15.

      Given your 21 days is today, I’d wait until the end of the week. If nothing, I’d contact the IRS at that point. If you have one of the above issues, then I’d wait until early March.

      Reply

  119. I filed 1/18/2019 and got a message saying accepted 1/23/2019. I had the bars at first and now i have a message that says takes action with reference code 1541. I do have dependents. I called and was told that i will receive a letter in the mail and that because of the PATH Act its delayed. I have yet to receive a letter and have notice people who claim just like I have had either received a date or gotten their return. Not sure if I should be concerned or not.

    Reply

    • I would not be concerned. You should get your refund around March 4. If you don’t get it by the 10th or so, I’d reach out again.

      Reply

  120. I’ve filed for my taxes on jan.22nd I had still processing then two weeks later I got code 1541 I called the IRS they told me there was no problem going on with my return I was informed on three different dates feb.15,feb.27th,and March 4th I’m still waiting with the same dumb code its frustrating

    Reply

  121. WMR says my refund was mailed on February 25th. I have never had them mail me a check and always had direct deposit. My return was accepted on January 28th. This is about 2 weeks later for a refund than I’ve ever experienced. It seems like there is some delay this year even though we were assured there wouldn’t be.

    Reply

    • If you asked for direct deposit on your return, and are getting a check, it’s usually because there was some typo or issue with the account or routing number, or the name on the account didn’t match the tax return. You might double-check your return to make sure everything was entered correctly.

      Reply

      • Thanks for your reply but I have double checked the routing and account information and verified that it is correct. I am 100 percent sure there are no mistakes or discrepancies on my part. It must be some glitch on the IRS end.

        Reply

        • Double check the account name too – We’ve seen issues where the tax return was in your name, but the spouse’s name was on the checking account, causing it to bounce back.

          Reply

  122. Filed with H&R Block online 2/1. It was accepted 2/2. I do have EITC. Got an update a week or so ago stating direct deposit to be expected on 2/27. We shall see.

    Reply

  123. I filed on 01/31/19 was accepted the next day. WMR bar was gone after a week. Just have it saying, “We have received you refund and it’s being processed”, ” A refund date will be available when done processing”. And I have the tax topic 152. I called the irs on Monday the 25 and they told me it’s under a 45 day review. That if I haven’t heard anything by March 11 to call back. I did claim the child tax credit. I hope they won’t make me wait a year like I have been reading on here.

    Reply

  124. I filed and was accepted on 2/10, but according to your post they are holding some returns until 2/15. Which means the 21 days would be 3/8. When I checked WMF there aren’t any bars and said “your refund is still being processed and a refund date will be provided when available” it also has topic 152. I have child tax credit and eic. That’s all the information there. So I think I just have to wait it out the extra few days.

    Reply

  125. I filed on 01/31/2019 got accepted the next day. WMR bar went away after two weeks. It just saids, that it’s still processing. And I have the tax topic 152. I did claim my two kids. I called on the 25th of Feb. She told me that I was under a 45 day review to call back after March 11 if I didn’t receive a letter or my refund. I realize after reading through the thread that my 21 days didn’t start until Feb 15. I hope I didn’t get my taxes flagged for calling early. I hope it comes on March 4.

    Reply

  126. I filed my taxes on January 30th 2019, the web site says still being processed an has a tax topic 153. What does that mean? I filed my 3 children plus my self. What’s raking so long? I don’t understand.

    Reply

    • Are you sure you’re seeing Tax Topic 153, not 152? Tax Topic 153 is a weird one to get on WMR and we’ve never seen it.

      As for your return, if you have 152 and your children, you’re likely waiting on EITC – which means you should expect your return around March 4.

      Remember, the IRS can’t process your return until 2/15, so even if you file early, your return just waits. Your 21 day countdown then starts on 2/15.

      Reply

  127. I e-filed on 2/2, my federal was approved on 2/2 and State was approved on 2/3, I received my State deposited into my account on 2/23 but nothing for Federal yet. I was checking wheres my refund which said it was approved then bar moved to being processed we will give a date soon to now its saying no information for the past week. I called the IRS today 2/28/19 to see what’s going on as NY I was told I will be receiving a letter for identity verification….what does this mean? Why was I approved, then processed to now I have to do identity verification? They would not tell me what this means or what it entails just that I was randomly selected and that it’s in the letter what I need to do and will receive it we within 14 days. I’m so confused and frustrated. What does this mean? And how long will it take yo get my refund now? And why do I have to verify my identity?

    Reply

    • Do you have EITC or ACTC? If so, your 21 days didn’t start until 2/15 and you shouldn’t expect your return until next week. However, if you got flagged for identity verification, you now need to take steps through the process and it could delay your return.

      Reply

    • Kelly,

      I get what your saying. I filed on 1/28/19 accepted 1/29/19 started out great until I got the big 9001 code (identification verification) on the WMR site. I knew to call the IRS in doing so I gave the agent the personal info only for her to say, “you did not pass your identity verification test.” I said, “ok so i’m not my mom and dad’s biological daughter?” The agent just snickered and said, “I’m not authorized to give out information stating why you didn’t pass.” Those were the only questions she asked me! I had to hang right up and make an appointment to physically go to the IRS dept to face to face with an agent with all three of my acceptable proof of identification. It took five minutes and that was on 2/22/19. Still waiting patiently because the agent told me from 2/22/19 it could be 45 days from my review. I only look on WMR every 2-3 days right now so I won’t get frustrated. Good Luck!

      Keri

      Reply

  128. I have tax topic 203 which states I will have an offset, but I don’t owe anything to anyone. Not only that, but my info says that the payment was sent to my bank on 02/27/2019, but my bank claims they still haven’t seen a deposit. I verified banking info on my return and printed it to make sure everything was accurate. I’m either very confused and will get my return on the 4th, or someone on their end messed up.

    Please help…..

    Reply

    • If you don’t get anything in the first few days if the week, then you should definitely call the IRS and see what’s up.

      Reply

      • Thanks Robert. I’m assuming that means this week?

        I do know I called the bank again today after seeing no deposit and they still don’t see anything from the IRS.

        Reply

          • This is the first year that I haven’t received my refund BEFORE the system shows it as sent. This is utterly ridiculous. Who can I blame for this????? lol

  129. Mine were accepted February 9th. IRS website says my funds were sent January 27th but I haven’t received anything. The site says call if I don’t receive them by March 4th. What does it mean that my funds haven’t posted even though the website says my funds were sent February 27th?

    Reply

    • It can take 2-3 business days for them to post to most banks. Given it’s the weekend, you might not see your refund post until early this week.

      Reply

  130. Refund acccepted by irs on 1-30-19, well over 21 days only messages on WMR is processing date will available tax topic 152, no bars available anymore. How should I proceed?

    Reply

      • Smh today is the 4th still not update on wmr same message as before. Date will be provided when available still being processed. Tax topic 152.
        Called and was told I’m under review I verified some information and I was told the review does not start until March 11th and could last until early April, no letter no email stating I’m under review heck wmr don’t say it either. Do I wait? That’s a long time though it will be atleast 3 months from date of approval

        Reply

        • A review means a real human is looking at your return. It could have been flagged by the computer or by the IRS agent you spoke to. You just have to wait it out. If you do receive a letter, follow the steps.

          Reply

  131. If I filed on 1/22 and it was accepted on 1/28, wouldn’t the WMR status update telling me I’ll get my refund on 3/4 due to EITC? It still says processing.

    Reply

    • Mine to I was accepted on February 4th on February 23rd bars went away says still processing tt152 and it’s March 2nd now.

      Reply

  132. I filed 2/1 and it’s now been a month still stuck on it’s being processed with topic 152, my tax preparer just told me their now posting dates on Saturday’s only (sounds dumb) I just want my money and some people are saying their money is just showing up in their account w/o a date being given, this has been the worst yr of filing!!!

    Reply

  133. I filed Feb 3..nothing….code 152 that’s it called they said under review they want start til March 11…why is this no letters anything

    Reply

    • Under review means a real human is checking your return. It could have been automated or it could have been due to your call and being flagged by the agent.

      Reply

  134. I have left a comment before and I cannot find it. And I did not get a reply. I efiled on 1/29. Was accepted within an hour. Have a 1098t, w2, self employment, and 2 other kids. Had an original date of 2/19. On the 18th changed to delayed, take action, code 1541, ext 312. (Did not call, read some of your posts). As of Friday 3/1, it changed to processing. Now do I start counting from the 15th or the 1st of March? My nerves are running rapid. Should I be concerned enough to go ahead and call or tough it out another week or so?

    Reply

    • You start counting from Feb 15. Why are your nerves running high? Just be patient and wait.

      If you don’t get your return by next week I’d call.

      Furthermore, if you really need your refund each year, you might consider adjusting your W4 paycheck withholding to get bigger checks and less refund.

      Reply

  135. Hello. I filed and got the acceptance email on February 4th 2019. Then next day I looked on the app it had one bar received was like that until February 23rd it updates to no bars saying the still processing you will get an update when approved or whatever. Also with tax topic 152.It is now March 2nd and still says that. Haven’t got no ddd or anything. It’s past 21 days. Yes I filed with a child. But it’s never took this long. Anyone else? I’m scared it’s going to be months until I get it. I do not want to call and delay things longer.

    Reply

    • I would personally wait another week or two before calling. Given it sounds like you have Path, you should be expecting it soon.

      Remember, you can also change things to avoid this next year if this is a problem for you financially.

      Reply

      • You keep saying that March 4 is when everyone with PATH should see their refund. Shouldn’t the WMR show that? I checked it this morning and it’s still saying it’s being processed.

        Reply

        • The reason we say March 4 is that’s 21 days from February 15. February 15 is important because if you have PATH (due to EITC or ACTC), your 21 day countdown didn’t even start until February 15 at the earliest. So, this week will be a big week for many filers with PATH.

          Reply

  136. Filed on 2/3..with child credits no bars just topic 152…called and they said under review and will Start march 11 and then wait 45 days after why is this ?

    Reply

    • Well, a review means a real human is looking at your return. It can be random, or the IRS rep you spoke to could have flagged you for review as well.

      Reply

  137. I filed my taxes 1/21 and was accepted 1/22. After I got a message from TurboTax saying my taxes were accepted I logged on to the IRS website and got no information. I was left with a message saying use ext. 362 and tell them reference code 9001. So after waiting the full 21 days. I called they said I have to verify my identity on idverify.gov. I have done that now they are giving me a refund date of 4/24. Which I do not understand because all my information has been the same for years. The only thing that has changed is the amount I have made from year to year. I’m really starting to believe this is a game the IRS is playing. To stall taxes because they are upset. I feel like I am being punished for doing absolutely nothing wrong.

    Reply

  138. I filed Feb 03 was accepted right away with the earned income bars went away with tax topic 152 I called irs last week they said nothing was wrong I should got a date march 01 but nothing still here in it Sunday mar 03 nothing in filed all three of my kids this never happen should I be concerned

    Reply

    • I wouldn’t be concerned, especially if you have date! Just be patient for it to post to your account.

      Reply

  139. So I filed 2/6 got approved on the 6. 21 days went by I called and was told was on 45 days review don’t expect my taxes to mid April. It didn’t make sense all was the same. Well I knew they were just saying that to buy time because they are behind yesterday got an update the money will be here on the 6 no later hAng tight . I was so scared of the 45 days because you never know with these ppl

    Reply

    • omg i hope i filed on feb 5th, i also called them today march 4th they told me i have a 45 day review this has never happened to me before so ur message just gave me alil hope

      Reply

  140. Filed 2/9. Had EIC and claimed head of hh w/ 1 kid. Today is March 4th. Nothing yet, but these comments have been extremely useful in keeping me from freaking out. Bank said there are no deposits pending, but I’ll give it until the 6th before I let panic set in. Thanks to everyone for sharing their experiences so far!

    Reply

  141. Was hoping to wake up a update this morning on wmr and still nothing :/ I filed my dependents hopefully I will get a update this week

    Reply

  142. My federal and state taxes were accepted on Jan 30 yes I have the EITC & the ACTC but it’s March 4th and I’m still stuck on Topic 152. I called and when I finally got someone they transferred me to the refund dept which put me back on The automated system. What do I do? Please help someone!

    Reply

    • You wait your 21 days from February 15, which it the law. Your 21 days is the end of this week. Stay patient.

      Reply

  143. I called irs this morning and was told I was on a 45 day review but the representative gave me a date of march 11 saying that it would post by then I’m a little confused what he mean’t by then can someone please explain of what will post by that date?

    Reply

    • I was told the same thing. They told me if I haven’t gotten anything by March 11 to call back. We just have to be patience and wait.

      Reply

  144. I have also had a delay in my tax return. I did my taxes on January 28th. Then accepted next day, and then went to a code 1541 delay… finally, this past weekend it updated to processing, and has not changed. I do get the EIC and Child credits, and have patiently been waiting, checking other comments, I Have NOT contacted IRS because I do not want to be flagged and then delayed longer. How much longer is this going to take? Is anyone else having this same issue, I cannot be the only one… others have already received their return with same credits and filed exactly the same day as me. Should I contact them?

    Reply

    • Given your 21 days is March 8, you should wait patiently for another few days. If you don’t get anything by next week, I’d contact them.

      Reply

      • Hi there, thank you for responding to all of us. You have been a huge help. I wanted to update that I am still on “We have received your tax return and it is being processed since March 9th, from “We have received your tax return and is still being processed”. I did try calling IRS but wait time is long, I cannot stay on too long. Only time I can call is during my lunch and breaks from teaching class… I have NOT received any correspondence either. Also, still unable to check my transcripts online to check status (however I was able to order to have mailed to me). Not sure what is going on. Do you think there will be updates again?

        Reply

  145. I E filed on Feb 8th, was accepted the next day. My bars disappeared over a week ago with the topic 152 saying it’s still being processed. I claim 3 kids, same as every year. I called today and she said I’m on a 45 day review starting March 18th. Does anyone know what this actually means and what they are reviewing ?

    Reply

    • If you’re being reviewed, it means an actual IRS agent will look at your tax return. For most people it doesn’t mean anything. If they have questions, they’ll send you a letter.

      Reply

  146. Who here has actually received their refund? And did you have child, education, or EIC credits?

    Reply

    • Countless people have. The trouble is, once they do, they don’t come back and update us!

      Reply

      • I just called the IRS and so did my sister who also hasn’t gotten a refund. We were both told 45 day review. My sister doesn’t have any credits. Is this a way of the IRS to say we are behind and we will just say 45 days longer? Seems really odd that, that is the line everyone is being told.

        Reply

        • Reviews do happen, and it means an agent needs to look at something. Based on what we’re seeing, while the tax season got off to a rough start, the IRS isn’t far off from their 21 day average.

          Reply

  147. My refund was supposed to be deposited in my bank today, we join checking the IRS page, it states that my refund has been applied to a past due obligation..: what the heck does that even mean??

    Reply

  148. I filed February 5th got accepted the 6th had bars then they disappeared. Talked to a representative they said it’s under review for income verification,but that will not start until March 11th will it really take the 45 days?

    Reply

  149. If I went in to the IRS on February 22 2019 for identification verification, do I have to wait another 21 days from that date?
    The IRS agent said “more then likely” 7-10 days for a WMR update.
    Just inquiring, I know patience are nine tenths of the IRS law! lol

    Reply

    • We usually see about a 45 day total delay if you have to actually go in to verify your identity.

      Reply

  150. Still waiting for my refund! Hopefully I will see an update on WMR Saturday morning. Since I’m a “weekly”. My 21 days is today.

    Reply

  151. If I have a 45 day review or whatever will I still get a update tomorrow? The agent I talkws to said I waa under a 45 day review and should post by match 11 what does that mean? Does that mean my review will start on the 11th? He said if they needed any verification they would send a letter in the mail but as of now I don’t need ro take any action can someome please tell me what this means?

    Reply

  152. I also filed with EIC and child credits on February 7th and it was accepted the same day. My bars went away about 2 weeks ago and has been showing “processing topic 152” ever since. Everyone I know that filed at the same time as me with the same credits has already received their refunds weeks ago. After reading other comments I am too scared to called as it might flag my account. But I read on a few places to go online and see if it will allow you to request your transcripts for 2018 and if so that means your claim has already been approved and is about to be issued out. So I did that 2 days ago on the IRS website and it approved my request but I see no change on the refund status, it still shows processing. For everything I’ve read we should receive our refunds sometime next week ( week of March 11th ) and if not it’s because it’s being reviewed/flagged/etc. If mine isn’t here by next Friday im going to call and see what they say. Just like all of you I depend on my refund and this is beyond frustrating.

    Reply

  153. My 2019 tax return was accepted on Feb. 2, 19…I filed the EITC and CTC. I have not received any letters from the IRS. My WMR screen says my return is still being processed, and refund date will provided when available with a 152 code.

    Reply

  154. No update for me again on WMR. This is starting to get very annoying. I have filed the same for the last 7 years.

    Reply

  155. I filed 2/1, accepted 2/1, updated to “your refund is still processing, you will receive a deposit date when available”. No codes on 2/22. Still no ddd, should I try to call and speak to someone at IRS on Monday or just keep waiting. I was under the impression if I needed to call “wmr” would of updated to tell me if there was a issue or I was receiving a letter.

    Reply

    • WMR will update if there is an issue. There is likely no issue. The Trump Shutdown really delayed things at the IRS. We’re seeing the IRS telling people to wait until this week now, so we recommend you wait at least another week before being concerned.

      Reply

  156. No update for me either. When I talked to a irs agent they told me I was under review starting march 11 so I’m curious does that mean they will start reviewing my return on that date or what? Agent also said If I don’t recieve anything by that date to give them a call back but I haven’t recieved a letter in the mail stating why I’m under a 45 day review

    Reply

    • A review means a real human is checking your return. It doesn’t mean anything, but it does delay things. If you get a letter, follow the instructions.

      Reply

  157. I filed my taxes on 2/20 and WMR still says it’s processing. Any other year it only takes a week and I have it back. Does checking wmr everyday is 2 times a day delay the refund?

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  158. Please update! The folks that are still waiting and wondering or just simply need some type of reassurance need the updates. I’m happy for the folks that received there’s but please keep us updated.

    Reply

  159. So I called the irs this morning. They said that we were under review for wage verification. That i should recieve the notice soon. And That it could take from now until may, 2. I don’t see why, my husband has had the same job for the last 8 years. This is so frustrating!

    Reply

  160. Filed and accepted 2/1/19. status bars went away about 2 weeks later. Still shows that my return is still processing with tax code 152. I looked at my online transcripts and it shows that the processing date is 3/11/19 (which i don’t understand at all). I have not received any letters and it’s becoming very frustrating.

    Reply

  161. Somewhat of a update.
    The IRS agent I spoke to said that the IRS computer system doesn’t recognize the input from a identity verification for 3 weeks. It starts the processing cycle all over again. So “everyone” that has done a verification or has to do ID verify, willhave a 3 week wait in between and update unless by any chance your “one of the luck ones” that gets an update a lot sooner. Her words verbatim.

    K

    Reply

  162. I filed my taxes feb.2 got accepted feb. 3 got my state feb. 27 called the irs on march 3 day and they said my federal is being reviewed for up to 60 day and i checked my staus it has the 152 thing so it doesn’t mean im a get my taxes anytime soon fml……

    Reply

    • A review typically adds about 45 days to the process. If you get a letter requesting any information, send in the request as soon as possible to prevent further delays.

      Reply

  163. Filed 1/28 with both tax credits as usual, accepted the next day. WMR said processing until 2/14 and then said there is a delay in processing with reference 1541 and call extension 312. Called IRS, get different answers every time we call. First was told nothing is wrong and it’s just because of claiming our kids, the next lady was extremely rude and said our return is under review but couldn’t tell me why and we would receive most of it, if not all on the 27th of Feb. Never received it. On 3/1 the website changed back from saying there is a delay, to our return is being processed. Called again on the 4th, the agent said they are reviewing our taxes and would receive a letter by 3/7 (never got it) saying why it could be under review and we won’t see anything for at least 45 days from receiving the letter. We’ve never had an issue in the past, I don’t understand why they can’t tell us if and what the problem is.

    Reply

    • You may not have a problem at all. Reviews can be random or be triggered by an inconsistency (which may or may not even be a problem). If the IRS needs anything, they’ll contact you.

      Reply

  164. I filed EIC and CTC through turbotax on 2/7 and accepted 2/7 and since then WMR has showed still processing with topic 152. Haven’t gotten any letters and to scared to call to find out if there is any errors. My question is I owed state tax this year and when I was filing I set up for my state tax amount of $400 to come out my bank account in sometime in March thinking I would have my federal refund by then and now I’m scared it is going to hit before I receive it. I can’t remeber the date I chosen and tried looking on turbo tax but I can’t find it. So how to I get that payment canceled now since I won’t have the funds to pay it?

    Reply

  165. Filed Jan 31st, recieved Jan 31st. Waited the 21 days to call after Feb 15th, IRS lady said if I havnt received anything by march 18th to call them back. IRS website still says a date will show when it comes available with the EITC topic code. Is anyone else going through this? Should I be worried? Everyone who filed before me even after me with EITC got their returns two weeks ago. Thank you

    Reply

    • Read all the comments above! You should be expecting something this week. If not, I’d contact the IRS.

      Reply

  166. i filed 2/4 and was accepted. bars disappeared and tax topic 152 with code 9001 for 21 days. called. they mailed me an identity Verification letter and i passed on march 8. the guy on the phone told me to be watching for an update within next 10 days. hoping everything is ok and im done and get refund? anyone have any luck in this position? thank you

    Reply

    • Natalie,
      From my experience….
      Look at your previous tax return and see what day you received your refund ie: Wednesday, Friday etc. If your refund was sent or dd on a Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday or Sunday that’s weekly.
      K

      Reply

  168. I filed Feb. 1 2019 and received my State on Feb 15, 2019 by doing Efile. Weeks went by and still no Federal. So I called the IRS to find out where my Federal was at and she told me I was being reviewed. She told me I would have my money by March 11. March 11 already passed and STILL no Federal! So I called them back again as now I am pissed that people I work with even got the child tax credit and even got double than what I was receiving and they got theirs back with no problem! I told the lady that I NEVER received any kind of letter from the IRS stating I was being reviewed! She then told me I would receive it that week as they just sent it out. It has been 2 weeks now and STILL no letter as I know for a fact that it doesn’t take 2 to 3 weeks floating in the mail to get to me!! I am so beyond pissed about this! If they drag their feet any longer, who would I have to contact that would be above them????

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  169. My prediction is everyone who was told they are under review and myself am one of them and have to wait 45 days will be getting their refund by:

    If you were told something about processing on March 11th then you should get your refund by March 29th

    If you were told something about processing on March 18th then you should get your refund by April 5th

    Again this is just a theory I think that because of the delay with the government shut down that these dates are our new accepted dates and if you view the 2019 return calendar dates and base your return off this new review processing date we’ve been given the dates above are what corresponds with them.

    again I could be totally wrong and we may all still have to wait 45 days but I am trying to be hopeful and I just ask that anyone who reads this if you’ve been one of the people who have been using these comments as a way of getting information to please reply with a comment when you finally do get your refund so the rest of us know and can get an idea based off other similar situations.

    Reply

    • I thought the same thing as I was looking into it…i just wished we had a date even if it is 6 weeks away so we can plan accordingly

      Reply

    • That makes sense thanks! I was told my old employer did not turn in paperwork but they did. I think they are just giving us excuses till they get all of them out. They told me March 11th so let’s see what happens I will update march 29th.

      Reply

  170. I e-filed On TurboTax On 2/14, claimed a child, got approved and accepted the same day. Today marks a month since I efiled and when I go on IRS to “where’s my refund” , it just says: your refund is still being processed. A date will be provided when available
    Turbo tax sent me a prepaid card and everything so I thought my taxes were going through since they sent me a card and what not.
    I called the IRS and the lady representative told me that my return “is under review and count 45 days starting March 25”
    I’m so frustrated because now my phones are going to get cut off, I can’t pay certain bills and so now I’m going to have to resort to selling stuff to come up with some money.
    Not only do I have to wait 45 days, but I have to wait another 11 days before that 45 day count even starts!

    Reply

    • Hello Riyah,
      I get exactly where your coming from! Also there are people that have the same filing status, credits and time frame as us and have dd dates or have already received there money..URRRRRR. I filed on January 28, accepted January 30th and the 9001 reference code came up on February 5th. I am beyond heated . I file edu tax credit every year the same way and nothing (as far as my personal info) has changed. Its the IRS that is so far behind that they are just saying were under review to by more time because of their shut-down. talk about liars but “boy a person better not owe the IRS” its double standards and the IRS didn’t want a bunch of filers to be jamming up there telephone systems! To me they caused more drama and work for themselves. The IRS doesn’t give a sh*t if we lose are homes (rent, food for our families etc) as long as they get to take there breaks and their time tapping a few keyboard buttons. So, I get it! Good Luck and Hope you update sooner then later… 🙂
      K

      Reply

  171. Update on my status: Filed 2/7/19 accepted next day. Have income credit, child and education credits. 2/28 came and went, called IRS was told I was getting a review starting on 3/18 (which is B.S they are just telling people, no human is looking at the return because they are behind and will not admit it). Just checked today, it says I will be getting my refund 3/20…..We will see.

    Reply

  172. Update:
    I e-filed Feb 13
    Within 5 days, received the 152 message.
    Just checked WMR today and my refund is expected March 20.

    Reply

  173. Hi everyone,
    I was very anxious and googling almost everyday about my tax refund. I called after 21 days and the rep said it was randomly selected for a 45 day review. I was even more anxious. I have two children and of course need the money like everyone else. Everyone I knew had already gotten their tax refund. She said my review would start March 11 and I found out March 16, 2019 that I will be receiving my full refund by March 20, 2019. I was just writing hoping to give everyone some relief.

    Reply

  174. Update: After being told we were under review since 2/15, we finally got notice in the mail on 3/15. The letter stated the review started on 3/11 and we won’t hear anything until 4/25/19. The letter still doesn’t say specifically what they are reviewing. I continue to check WMR and it still shows it’s processing. Obviously devastating for my family that relies on that money this time of year. Tried calling the number to get a tax advocate on the phone, but every time we’ve called we are on hold for over an hour and no one picks up. Beyond frustrating!!

    Reply

    • The tax advocate can’t do anything unless the review takes longer than expected. 45 days is pretty normal. If you goes beyond 90, then a tax advocate might step in.

      Reply

  175. I filed my taxes on February 4th. I inadvertently left my closed account in the direct deposit section of my return. I would have received my taxes on February 25 (according to the tool tracker) but of course the bank had to kick it back. On March 5th I called the IRS and they advised that my refund was under review because of PATH (I have children) and advised it would take 45 days from the date of the letter they would send me in the mail that week. It is now 3/20 and still have not received the letter they said they would send me. Looks like I’m in for a long wait…

    Reply

  176. So I totally screwed up my taxes my SO and I work for the same company and his gross was put in for my tax return. Didnt know until I called and they told me they had to verify my income because what I reported was different from what the company reported. Now have to wait 60 days from march 13th and hope I hear something. I’ve done up my amend still receiving a return just a few hundred less. Will they correct the amount before they send me a refund or pull the difference out when I get it and pay it back? Also When should I mail in the amended return?

    Reply

    • In many cases, they will fix it for you and send you a letter for what they did. Before you amend your return, you might want to speak with a tax professional.

      Reply

  177. My refund was accepted on 3/5, was getting the processing message on WMR for a week then on 3/15 it started saying my information does not match. Do I need to be concerned or just wait it out?

    Reply

  178. so I’m a single mother of two kids and I’m having the same problem I filed January 29th and got accepted the same day I received a review notice about a week ago, it said something about April 24th being when I should get my refund, but I just opened my mailbox and found another letter saying they need an additional 60 days that letter was sent out March 14th I called March 20th and actually got a hold of an IRS agent he was super nice and told me april 24th is when I should get something… I’m so very confused right now

    Reply

  179. Hey how long u have to wait to get a update do I waited your hold 60 days or let me know how many days please thanks tricey

    Reply

  180. Filed 1/29 with both tax credits as usual, accepted the next day. WMR said processing until 2/14 and then said there is a delay in processing with reference 1541 and call extension 312. Called IRS, and the lady said I needed to verify my identity and asked a few questions. Once done verifying my identity she said I was under further review and it could take up to 45 days to receive the refund if not sooner. Said I’d be getting a letter in the mail and haven’t received one yet. It’s been over a month now since I’ve made the call and still nothing. Website still says ‘We have received your tax return and it is being processed. How much longer is the process going to take? I’ve been filing the same way for years now and I’ve never experienced anything like this.

    Reply

  181. How long does it take to do a wage verification? I was told under review on March 11. Irs guy said they don’t need anything from me, he said the where just checking the wages I reported. I got the 45 day letter on the 18 of march. SSA.gov shows nothing reported for 2018. But employer said he sent it the same day he gave w2s. I filed on Jan 31. TA said I have to wait until the 45 days are up before they can do anything.

    Reply

  182. Update from previous entries: We were told we were under a 45 day review starting 3/11(per the letter received). Then 2 days letter we get another letter stating they need an additional 60 days to “give us a complete response as to what action they are taking”. But still they wouldn’t say what they are reviewing and that they need nothing from us. Then on 3/23 the WMR website said our refund was approved and was deposited on the 27th. So hopefully this helps all of those that have received review notices from the IRS. I honestly believe it’s an excuse for being behind on things and having a new system. Good luck everyone!

    Reply

  183. We have been waiting a while for our tax return. It’s been at least 30 days. We sent it certified and received that the IRS got it. It’s really frustrating come on! Already!

    Reply

  184. WMR says my refund check was supposely mailed on 3/18/19, but havent receiv it yet.. anyone knows how long mailed refund check supposed to take?

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  185. I have been waiting on my taxes since Feb. I spoke with IRS, they had me verify all my information. They said I will receive a refund soon (no date was given). Three days after speaking with them I received a letter in the mail that said allow them 60 days. This is so unfair, I have never waited this long for my taxes. I am in the process of moving since my lease is up and now I only have my security deposit. I don’t know what I’m going to do since I don’t have enough for my first or last month rent. I wonder why they making me wait 60 days?

    Reply

  186. I filed in Jan 31 received a letter to verify my identity on Mach 4 & on April 5 I revived a letter that my account was on held and selected to undergo a 60- day review

    I was selected for identity verification and then 4 weeks from verifying I got selected for a 60 review bc my w2 says I made 14,000 & input down I made 13,000 I filed with turbo I think it was a error on turbo tax software I entered everything correctly it’s no way my return says 14,000 & I put 13,00 my question is do you think I will recive my return while I’m on the 9 week verification if they know were I went wrong my return why do I have to wait additional 60 days

    Reply

    • If you believe there was an error in the software, your should contact TurboTax support and have them help you through the process. But you will still have to wait on the IRS anyway.

      Reply

  187. We cannot provide any information about your refund. If you electronically filed a complete and accurate tax return you should receive your refund in about 21 days from the received date. If you mailed your return please allow 6 weeks.

    Please read the following information related to your tax situation:
    Tax Topic 152, Refund Information

    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. The date you mailed your return.

    Please mention reference number 9001 to the IRS Customer Service Representative
    IRS Hours of Service: Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
    This is all I get since 01-28-19 and since 02-27-19 my identity case been close to wait 9 weeks now 04-05-19 it say 60 days from 04-05-19 smh this is crazy I’ve never been through this I have 3 kids single mom and been fielding for 33 years never this issue… why this happen …

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  189. Ugh so confused .. so i was put on a 60 day wait by irs .. i filed on march 6 .. was told they need more time so added those 60 days .. i submitted all documents requested does eny one now if it really does take the 60 days ..

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  190. Its been months since my tax refund went into review. I filed on 2/25/2019 and it is now 4/19/2019. They estimated it would be refunded 4/2 … Gee thanks government. Anyone have a number for a real person i can talk to on the phone for the state of Michigan?

    Reply

  191. I filed on March 18th. The day after I filed , when using the where’s my refund app , I would have bars displayed and a message stating topic 152. It’s is now 4/22/19 , when I log in all its says is your tax return is still being processed, with no bars anymore. Hopefully they will come soon as we just had a baby and could use the money towards buying our home. Just wondering what is the longest that it could possibly take so we are prepared and what might be the hold up. . Thanks.

    Reply

  192. I filed in January, was immediately accepted. I have received two review letters, one 45 and one 60 day. I have talked to someone who couldn’t tell me much through the phone number provided on the website. I have read the bill of rights regarding our taxes. I would say we are not being honored on the the right to be informed or quality service. But anyways, any ideas what the problem is. The letters that i recieved didn’t ask for any further information? Could there be a problem? I am claiming the child tax credit for my nephew whom i have had guardianship of for two years. Last year there was no problem. I am also really counting on this money, because the house i am renting is selling. Please Help!

    Reply

  193. E-Filed on 1/29/19.
    2/15/19 got the 1541 code.
    3/1/19 got a letter saying under review.
    3/7/19 received another letter saying return is under review.
    IRStogo app says “your return has been received and is being processed”.
    The letter says to not contact the irs for 60 days(by the date on letter) because they have no information to provide.
    Here we are coming up on 3 FULL MONTHS since I filed my taxes and still no refund.
    Incomprehensible.

    Reply

  194. The IRS states they did not receive wage reports from many Employers this year. Apparently, a huge software glitch. Im surprised nobody is talking out this.

    Reply

  195. Hello , I filed my tax return March 1st 2019 it was efiled electronically. It use to show a progress bar but now it just says “processing” tax topic 152 I also filed head of household , I claimed 2 of my children as well and haven’t received anything. What should I do.

    Reply

    • If you haven’t received any letters or notifications, 21 days is the earliest you can expect your return. If you have heard anything after about 30 days, call. If you’ve received a letter or notification, don’t bother calling until after whatever timeframe they say has expired.

      Reply

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