You might want to consider setting up USPS Informed Delivery if you haven't already. It's possibly helpful for tracking when your check will arrive, as you'll get daily emails with scanned images of mail that's scheduled for delivery that day. I believe this is somewhat standard procedure after identity verification - the IRS seems to default to paper checks as an additional security measure in cases where there might be, in their view, some potential risk factors with the return. Not saying your return had issues, just that the verification process itself sometimes triggers these additional security protocols.

Did they explain exactly why they switched from direct deposit to paper check? I'm in a similar situation and wondering if it's because of the name change after divorce. My verification is scheduled for exactly 6 days from now and I'm trying to prepare for all possibilities.

Been thru this twice now. IMO the key is keeping good records. If u have a healthcare.gov acct, login and download a fresh copy of ur 1095-A. The IRS is usually just checking that the APTC (advance premium tax credit) matches what the marketplace reported. Btw if there's a mismatch, don't panic - sometimes the marketplace issues corrected forms in Feb/March that u might have missed.

I handle these verifications for clients regularly. Here's what you need to know: • The 1095-A verification is standard procedure when you claim Premium Tax Credits • You can submit a copy (not original) of the form • The marketplace (healthcare.gov or state exchange) can provide a replacement • Submit via IRS online account for fastest processing • Include your notice number on all correspondence • Keep proof of submission (confirmation number or delivery receipt) The IRS is primarily checking that Box 33A (monthly premium amounts) matches their records.

Looking at this from a broader perspective, it's worth noting that per IRS Publication 17 and Internal Revenue Manual 21.4.1, the IRS maintains multiple address records in their systems. The Master File address is what's used for correspondence and refund checks, while the return information address is what appears on your filed return. When you spoke with the IRS representatives, they likely confirmed your correct address is in the Master File, which is the critical one for receiving your check. Something else to consider: if you filed Form 8822 (Change of Address) at any point, or if you've updated your address with the USPS and the IRS has cross-referenced this information, these actions would further ensure your check goes to the right place. The regulations are actually designed to handle these common errors efficiently.

I see a lot of advice here about the standard procedure, but let me share what actually happens in practice with DD rejects. The bank will reject the ACH transfer due to the account number mismatch, which triggers an automatic refund trace in the IRS system. This creates a TC 971 code on your transcript with an action code of 281. Once this happens, the paper check issuance is automatically scheduled, usually with a 2-3 week timeframe. The most reliable way to track this is actually through your tax transcript rather than WMR. If you can access your transcript online, look for these codes and you'll know exactly where you stand in the process. Such a relief when I finally figured this out after dealing with the same issue!

According to IRS Procedural Bulletin 2023-17, identity verification letters should be processed and mailed within 5 business days of the verification flag being placed on an account. However, due to the staffing shortages authorized under the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023, this timeline has been extended to "up to 15 business days" for fiscal year 2024. Once you receive and complete verification, Internal Revenue Manual 21.5.6.4.11 specifies that refunds should be issued within 9 weeks, though in practice it's typically 2-3 weeks. If you're experiencing financial hardship, you can request expedited processing under Economic Hardship Provision 6343(a)(1)(D), though this requires additional documentation.

Just to clarify something important - when you get the identity verification letter, you have two options: verify online (if eligible) or call the special number on the letter (not the regular IRS number). Many people make the mistake of calling the main IRS line, which won't help with verification. The letter will tell you exactly which option(s) you qualify for. Also, your 45-day review period doesn't start until AFTER you've verified your identity, not from when you filed your return.

You might want to try accessing your transcript through the IRS Transcript Delivery System (TDS) instead of the regular Get Transcript function: https://www.irs.gov/individuals/get-transcript. Sometimes the main transcript page shows N/A while the TDS has more current information. Also, check the Tax Return Database (TRDB) status through your tax software if you used one of the major providers - they sometimes have processing status information before it appears on the IRS systems.

I filed on April 15th at 4:30pm EST with a complex Schedule C return including home office deduction, mileage expenses, and QBI calculations. My transcript showed absolutely nothing for 31 days - not even an indication that I had filed. Then suddenly yesterday everything updated at once with a Direct Deposit Date (DDD) of next Wednesday. The IRS systems seem to batch-process the deadline filers rather than handling them in strict chronological order. The Cycle Code on my transcript is 20221905, which indicates it was processed in the 19th week of 2024 on a Friday batch run.