Guide to Reading Your IRS Tax Transcript, Line-by-Line

If you want to understand exactly what the IRS is doing with your tax return, this guide to reading your 2026 IRS tax transcript, line-by-line explains every section in simple language. Your transcript shows what stage your return is in, how the IRS is processing your refund, and what recent updates mean for your deposit date.

Why You Need This Guide to Reading Your IRS Tax Transcript, Line-by-Line

The IRS transcript is one of the most reliable tools for tracking refund progress. Many refund updates show on transcripts before they appear in Where’s My Refund. Because of this, checking your transcript gives you clearer information and fewer surprises during tax season.

Where to Find the Transcript Pages

You can view transcripts online through your IRS Online Account. After you log in, select “Account Transcript” for tax year 2025 or 2026. If your return is still processing, some sections may show “N/A,” which usually changes once the IRS posts your return to the master file system.

Understanding the Top Section of Your Transcript

The top of your transcript shows the filing year, your Social Security number, and the date the transcript was generated. It may also show an IRS cycle code. This cycle code identifies the date your return posted to the system and helps predict future updates when combined with transaction codes.

Reading Transaction Codes Line-by-Line

The transaction section lists individual IRS actions. Each code describes something the IRS has done with your return. A few common examples include:

• 150 Return Filed
• 806 W-2 and wage verification
• 570 Additional processing review
• 846 Refund issued

Every code includes a date and a description that helps you understand when the action happened and what that action means for your refund.

What the 846 “Refund Issued” Line Really Means

When you see the 846 line, the IRS has officially approved your refund. This line usually includes a date next to it. That date represents the day your refund was sent to your bank. In most cases, deposits arrive within several business days after the 846 date appears.

Understanding Verification Lines and Freeze Codes

If your transcript shows temporary freeze codes or identity verification notes, it means the IRS paused your account for review. These lines are not always bad news, but they can slow down processing until the IRS confirms your identity or records. Many taxpayers see freezing codes in early February during peak filing season.

How This Guide Helps You Through Tax Season

With this guide to reading your 2026 IRS tax transcript, line-by-line, you can follow every step of your return through the IRS system. You will understand what each line means, when to expect movement, and how close you are to receiving your refund. Because the IRS updates behind the scenes before WMR changes, your transcript is often the fastest way to get answers.