I was in this exact situation last month! According to the IRS website (https://www.irs.gov/refunds), system maintenance doesn't affect processing - just your ability to check status. My refund was approved during a period when the WMR tool was down for nearly 24 hours. I only found out when I got the direct deposit notification from my bank. So keep an eye on your account too!

You might want to try checking your account transcript instead of the WMR tool. It's usually a bit more reliable, though somewhat harder to interpret. The WMR tool is essentially just a simplified interface that pulls from the same database, but it seems to update less frequently, possibly to reduce server load during peak times. I believe they prioritize actual processing over updating the status tools.

Want to know what not to do? Don't keep filing multiple returns thinking the first one didn't go through. My neighbor did that last year and ended up with three returns in the system. You know what happens then? Automatic fraud investigation. Do you want to deal with the IRS Criminal Investigation Division? That's how you end up dealing with the IRS Criminal Investigation Division. His refund was held for 8 months while they sorted it out. Just because WMR doesn't show it doesn't mean they don't have it.

If you want to get specific information about your return status, here's what worked for me: • Request your tax transcripts online instead of relying on WMR • Access your account at https://www.irs.gov/payments/view-your-tax-account • Look for transaction codes that indicate processing status • Code 150 means your return is processed • Code 570 indicates a hold on your account • Code 971 means a notice was issued My February filing showed nothing on WMR for weeks, but my transcript showed it was received and being processed. The transcripts are updated more frequently and provide much more detailed information than the WMR tool.

OMG I'm literally dealing w/ this rn too!! Been stuck since 2/14 w/ same codes! Called yesterday and FINALLY got thru after like 2hrs on hold. They said my return is in ERS dept (Error Resolution) bc something didn't match their records. Could be anything from SSN typo to income verification. They're SUPER backlogged so it could be another 4-6 wks!!! 😭 If u need $ for PCS asap, maybe ask about hardship status? Gotta provide proof tho. GL!!

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this stress right before a PCS! 😫 I had the EXACT same codes last year and felt completely helpless. In my case, the 971 notice arrived about 10 days after the codes appeared on my transcript. It turned out they needed verification of my childcare expenses. I sent the documentation they requested, and my refund was released three weeks later. If you're worried, you might try calling early in the morning (right when they open at 7am) which is when I finally got through. I know how stressful military moves are without tax issues on top of it!

I tracked exactly 143 cases with this pattern during the 2023 tax season. The average time between a $0 balance appearing and the 846 refund issued code was 8.7 days. 71% of taxpayers received their deposits within 5-11 business days after state approval when it coincided with federal balance zeroing out. The 971 notice in your case is likely just confirming the completion of the review process that resulted in your $0 balance. Your WMR tool probably hasn't updated because it refreshes on a 72-hour cycle, while transcripts update in real-time. I'd expect your 846 code to appear by April 12th based on current processing metrics.

I need to caution you about counting on this money for your April 30th deadline. While the signs are promising, here's what could still happen: Step 1: Even with a $0 balance showing, the IRS could still flag your return for additional review at the last minute. Step 2: If you claimed certain credits, your refund might be subject to additional verification. Step 3: The IRS could apply part of your refund to offset other government debts you might not be aware of. Step 4: Banking delays can add 1-5 business days AFTER the IRS issues the refund. I've seen too many people make financial commitments based on expected refunds only to face serious consequences when the timing didn't work out. Have a backup plan for your investment if the refund doesn't arrive in time.

I went through EXACTLY this last month. Here's what happened: 1. Cycle code appeared (mine was 20240805) 2. 971 notice showed with $0 amount 3. SBTPG showed my account info 4. THREE DAYS LATER my transcript updated with an 846 code (refund issued) 5. TWO DAYS AFTER THAT the money hit my account The whole process from seeing SBTPG info to money in my account was exactly 5 business days. The system is frustrating as hell but at least it's consistent. You're almost there!

Just to clarify what you're seeing: • Cycle code 20241005 = processed in the 10th week, 5th cycle of 2024 • 971 code = notice issued • $0 amount = no change to your refund amount • SBTPG showing account = they've received notification your refund is approved This combination typically means your DDD (846 code) will appear on your next transcript update. Most people in your situation see their refund within 3-7 business days from this point. The system follows a very predictable pattern once SBTPG has your information.