One of the Most Confusing Parts of the IRS Refund Process
Taxpayers often assume that calling the IRS speeds up refunds — but that’s not how the system works.
In most cases, calling accomplishes nothing unless the IRS specifically instructs you to.
This post explains exactly which IRS messages require action — and which ones simply require patience.
The Golden Rule
If the IRS does not explicitly tell you to call them…
do not call.
Why?
Because:
- agents cannot see more than your transcript
- calls do not speed up processing
- the 21-day clock still applies
- unnecessary calls can actually increase delays for everyone
Instead — wait until the tool instructs you.
Messages That DO Require Calling
If you see these messages, you should call:
1. “We need additional information…”
This means:
- the IRS needs clarification
- often related to income, withholding, or dependents
- a notice was or will be mailed
Calling at this stage is appropriate.
2. “Please contact the IRS… regarding your return.”
This is a direct instruction.
Calls are necessary for:
- identity verification
- form clarification
- document confirmation
This message is intentional — not generic.
3. A letter notification appears on your transcript
If transcript shows:
- TC 971 (notice issued)
and you have not received it…
You may call to request:
- what notice was sent
- instructions
- next steps
- due dates
4. You received a physical IRS letter instructing you to call
Examples:
- 5071C
- 5747C
- CP05-L
- CP2000
- 4883C
- 2645C
These letters may require:
- identity verification
- wage verification
- dependent claim proof
- income matching
In this case — calling is necessary.
Messages That DO NOT Mean You Should Call
“We have received your return and it is being processed.”
Meaning:
- normal processing
- no issue
- no action required
“Your refund is still being processed. A refund date will be provided when available.”
Meaning:
- under review
- allow more time
- IRS will contact you if needed
A call will not change anything.
“We cannot provide any information about your refund.”
Meaning:
- data mismatch in WMR
or - return not fully entered yet
This is not a “call us” message.
It’s a “check your input or wait” message.
“Please allow additional processing time.”
Meaning:
- mechanized review
- credit validation
- data cross-checking
No call needed.
The system must process first.
When Calling Actually Hurts
Calling before the IRS is ready can result in:
- generic responses
- no real information
- repeat of WMR messages
- wasted call time
- frustration
- no processing acceleration
IRS agents cannot override system reviews or release funds before coding clears.
The RIGHT WAY To Check Your Status
Step 1: Use Where’s My Refund
Check once a day — not hourly.
Step 2: Check Your IRS Account Transcript
Look for these codes:
- TC 150 return filed
- TC 570 refund hold
- TC 971 notice issued
- TC 571 hold reversed
- TC 846 refund issued
This is real-time backend data.
Step 3: Only call when:
- instructed by message
- instructed by letter
- transcript shows notice codes
- it’s past 21 days
- or hardship exists
Hardship Exception: When You Can Always Call
If refund delay causes:
- eviction risk
- utility cutoff
- medical hardship
- inability to afford necessities
You qualify for assistance from the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS).
This is the ONLY scenario where calling early is appropriate.
If you do NOT see a message telling you to call…
do not call.
Your refund is still moving through the system.
You should call the IRS ONLY when:
- WMR explicitly instructs you
- your transcript shows notice activity
- you received a letter
- it’s been over 21 days (e-file)
- or you have documented hardship
