IRS Tax Transcript – Transaction Codes (TC Codes)
Decode the transaction codes on your IRS tax transcript so you can see what the IRS has done with your return, where your refund stands, and why things may be delayed. This hub pulls together the most common TC codes, plain-English explanations, tools, and FAQs in one place.
What Are IRS Transaction Codes?
Transaction Codes (TCs) are numeric “shorthand” the IRS uses on your account transcript to record every action taken on your tax return.
Activity Log for Your Return
Each code represents a specific event: return filed, refund issued, adjustment made, hold placed, offset, notice generated, and more. Together, they form a timeline of your return inside IRS systems.
Code + Explanation Column
On your transcript, TC codes appear in one column and the Explanation of Transaction appears next to them. Reading both together helps you understand exactly what changed and why.
Dates, Amounts & Balance
Most TC lines also show a cycle or posted date and an amount plus your updated account balance. This is where you can see when a refund was created, reduced, or delayed.
Common IRS Transaction Codes & What They Mean
Here are some of the TC codes taxpayers most often ask about. Use this as a quick overview, then use our full Transaction Code directory for the complete list.
| TC Code | Short Description | What It Usually Means for You |
|---|---|---|
| 150 | Return Filed / Tax Assessed | The IRS has posted your original tax return and calculated your initial tax. This is the “baseline” entry for that tax year. |
| 152 | Refund Information | Generic refund message used with Where’s My Refund? and transcripts. It does not guarantee approval; it only confirms your return is in the refund pipeline. |
| 570 | Additional Account Action Pending | A hold or freeze is in place while the IRS completes a review. Your refund normally can’t move forward until a later code (e.g., 571/572 or 971) is posted. |
| 571 / 572 | Resolved Account Issue | A prior hold or freeze (such as TC 570) was released. Once resolved, your refund can often move toward approval if no other issues remain. |
| 846 | Refund Issued | The IRS has approved and released your refund. The date on this line is the refund date the IRS expects to send the money. |
| 841 | Refund Reversed | A previously issued refund was cancelled, reversed, or returned. The IRS may reissue it, apply it to a debt, or send a notice explaining what changed. |
| 898 | Refund Applied to Debt (Offset) | All or part of your refund was used to pay past-due federal or state taxes, child support, student loans, or other eligible debts. |
| 290 / 291 | Additional Tax Assessed / Reduced | The IRS adjusted your tax. TC 290 usually means more tax; TC 291 usually means tax was reduced and may lead to a refund or smaller balance due. |
| 766 / 767 | Credits to Your Account | TC 766/767 codes generally show refundable credits or offsets being applied to your account, such as certain payments or tax credits. |
| 971 | Notice or Letter Issued | The IRS generated a notice about your account (for example, a review letter, ID verification request, or adjustment explanation). Check the notice date and mail. |
These summaries are for general education only. The exact meaning of any TC code depends on the full line on your transcript (including dates, amounts, and other codes) and the official IRS guidance for that code.
Transcript Tools on Refund Talk
Use these tools and guides to go deeper into your IRS transcripts, transaction codes, cycle codes, and refund timing.
Transcript Decoder Hub
Central hub for everything IRS transcripts: account vs. return transcripts, as-of dates, cycle codes, and more.
Open Transcript Hub RefundTalkTransaction Code Directory
Full A–Z listing of IRS Transaction Codes with plain-English explanations written for everyday taxpayers.
Search TC Codes RefundTalkCycle Code Charts
Decode your cycle code into expected IRS posting days and typical refund patterns for your processing cycle.
View Cycle Charts RefundTalkTranscript Dates & As-Of Date
Learn how “as of” dates, processed dates, and posting dates fit together with your TC codes and refund path.
Learn About Dates RefundTalkAmended Return Transcript Help
Understand how amended return activity (Form 1040-X) appears on your transcript and which TCs are involved.
Amended Transcript Guide RefundTalkIRS Get Transcript (Official)
Go straight to the IRS to view or download your transcripts online, or request a transcript by mail.
Open IRS Get Transcript IRS.govFacts & Tips About Transaction Codes
A few key reminders that can keep you from misreading your transcript or panicking over a single line of codes.
One Code Isn’t the Whole Story
Never judge your refund status from just one code. Always read your transcript as a timeline of events. Look at codes before and after the one you’re worried about, and note any recent dates.
TC 570 & 971 Often Travel Together
A hold code like TC 570 often shows up with a TC 971 (notice or letter issued). The letter usually explains what the IRS needs before your refund can move again.
Refund Issued vs. Sent vs. Received
When you see TC 846, the IRS has created your refund. Banks, debit cards, and mail delivery can still take extra time. Always allow a few business days beyond the 846 date.
Tip: Take screenshots or save PDFs of your transcript over time. Comparing older and newer versions makes it easier to see what changed and which new TC codes were added.
Transcript Transaction Code FAQs
Straightforward answers to the most common questions taxpayers have when they first see TC codes on their IRS transcript.
Do transaction codes mean I’m being audited?
Not necessarily. Many TC codes simply show routine processing, refund creation, or corrections. Some codes indicate additional review or a notice, but only certain situations turn into a formal audit. Always read the related notice and talk with a tax professional if you’re unsure.
Why does my transcript show a refund code but no money yet?
Once TC 846 (Refund Issued) appears, the IRS has created your refund, but it can still take time for your bank or card to post it, or for a mailed check to arrive. Weekends, bank processing policies, and holidays can all slow things down slightly.
What does a “hold” code like TC 570 actually do?
A hold code usually pauses part or all of your refund while the IRS completes an internal check. It can be related to income verification, credits, identity, or other issues. Often, you’ll see a TC 971 with a notice date explaining what the IRS is reviewing.
Can I fix a problem shown by a transaction code online?
Sometimes. If the issue is identity verification or missing information, the IRS may offer online options. Other times, you’ll need to mail documents or call. Always follow the instructions on the notice that goes with the TC code and consider professional help if it’s complex.
Do TC codes show my full refund amount?
Your transcript can show how the IRS arrives at your refund: initial tax, credits, withholdings, adjustments, and any offsets. The TC lines and account balance section together tell the whole story, including if part of your refund was used to pay other debts.
Where should I start if I’m completely confused by my transcript?
Start with the basics: confirm the year, look for TC 150 (return filed), then scan forward in date order for TC 570/571/572, 846, 898, and 971. Use this hub, the full Transaction Code directory on RefundTalk, and the IRS notices you received to piece together the timeline.
This page is designed to help you read your own transcript with more confidence. For official legal guidance, always rely on IRS publications, notices, and the Internal Revenue Code, or work with a qualified tax professional.
