150 | Return filed
This code indicates the IRS has received and recorded the tax return as filed in its system.
What This Code Means
Code 150 appears on an IRS account transcript to show that a tax return has been filed and entered into the IRS processing system. It represents the official recording of the tax liability as reported on the return. This code is typically one of the first transaction codes posted for a given tax period and reflects that the return has moved beyond simple receipt into formal account processing. It does not indicate approval of a refund, completion of processing, or absence of review. It simply confirms the return has been posted to the taxpayer’s account record for that year.
Where Users Usually See This Code
- On an IRS account transcript under the transaction codes section
- When reviewing tax account history for a specific tax year
- After a return has been accepted and entered into processing
Why This Code Appears
- The IRS has accepted the return and posted it to the taxpayer’s account
- The tax liability reported on the return has been recorded
- The return completed initial intake validation
- Processing moved from submission to account-level recording
What Typically Happens Next
- Additional transaction codes may appear reflecting credits, adjustments, or refund processing
- The account may update with refund-related codes if applicable
- The return may move through standard processing or review workflows
What This Code Is Not
- It is not a refund approval notice
- It is not confirmation that the return has completed all review stages
- It is not an indication of audit or examination by itself
Troubleshooting Checklist
- □ Review the transcript for additional transaction codes following 150
- □ Check whether refund-related codes have been posted
- □ Monitor the account for updates during processing cycles
- □ If uncertainty persists, use official IRS communication channels for clarification
Notes And Edge Cases
Code 150 often appears with a cycle date that reflects the IRS processing week. The presence of this code does not indicate whether a refund will be issued or delayed. In some cases, additional transaction codes may appear shortly after 150 that reflect credits, offsets, or holds. The timing between code 150 and later updates can vary depending on filing method, workload, and review requirements.