the irs website is literally the most confusing thing ever invented istg

Code 806 is definitely a good sign! It means the IRS has your withholding info from your W-2s. I was in the same boat last year - first time checking transcripts and felt like I needed a decoder ring 😅 The key is looking at all your codes together, not just individual ones. 806 by itself just shows your tax withholdings, but you'll want to look for things like 150 (tax return filed) and 846 (refund issued) to get the full picture of where your refund stands.

Just be careful when comparing transcript codes between years. I once noticed my 806 amount was significantly lower than the previous year even though I was making more money. Turned out my new employer had messed up my withholding. Unlike a regular bank statement where you can easily spot errors, these transcript codes don't exactly send up red flags when something's wrong. I had to pay a hefty sum at tax time because not enough was being withheld throughout the year. Now I always check my pay stubs against the withholding calculator in January to make sure I'm on track.

This is really helpful information, everyone! I've been stressing about understanding my transcript codes too. It sounds like the 806 code is basically confirmation that taxes were actually withheld from my paychecks throughout the year - which is reassuring to see documented. I'm curious though - if someone had multiple jobs during the year, would all the withholdings from different employers show up as one combined 806 amount, or would there be separate entries? Also, does anyone know if there's a specific date when this code typically appears on the transcript, or does it update throughout the year as withholdings happen?

Congrats ur almost there! EIC gang we outchea getting paid 💅

Code 571 means they lifted any previous hold on your return, and 846 is definitely your refund release date! February 14th should be when it hits your account (or within 1-2 business days). The transcript is way more reliable than WMR - I've seen people get their money while WMR still shows "processing" for weeks. You're in the home stretch! 🎉

Don't forget you need to answer the crypto question on Form 1040! Even if you just HELD crypto and didn't sell any, you need to check "Yes" to the question asking if you had any transactions involving digital assets. The IRS added this a few years ago and they're using it to track who has crypto.

Thanks everyone for all this detailed info! @Ellie Kim - you're definitely not alone in feeling overwhelmed by crypto taxes. I went through the same thing last year and it's way more manageable once you break it down. A few additional tips that helped me: - Keep detailed records throughout the year, don't wait until tax time. I use a simple spreadsheet to track each transaction as it happens. - If you're using multiple exchanges, download ALL your transaction histories as CSV files before you start. Some exchanges only keep records for a limited time. - Don't forget about any crypto you might have earned through things like Coinbase Learn rewards, airdrops, or referral bonuses - those count as income at fair market value when received. The specialized crypto tax software really is worth it if you have more than just a few simple buy/sell transactions. I tried doing it manually my first year and made so many errors I had to file an amended return. The peace of mind alone makes the software cost worthwhile. Good luck with your filing!

Pro tip: If you're having trouble reaching the IRS, try contacting your local Taxpayer Advocate Service. They can sometimes help push things through faster.

Just want to add another option that worked for me - you can also try updating your direct deposit info through the "Where's My Refund" tool on the IRS website. It's not always available depending on where your return is in processing, but if the option shows up, it's way easier than calling. I was able to change mine online without having to deal with phone wait times at all. Worth checking before you spend hours on hold!