IRS / Tax Error Code
IRS / Tax Status & Refund Codes
IRS Refund Processing Status
Refund approved but not sent | Payment not yet transmitted
Industry
IRS / Tax
Canonical
/irs-tax/error-codes/refund-approved-but-not-sent/
Last Updated
Feb 25, 2026
Summary
This status indicates that the refund has been approved but has not yet been issued or transmitted.
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What This Code Means
“Refund approved but not sent” reflects a transitional stage between approval and payment transmission. It indicates that IRS systems have completed processing but payment release has not occurred. The status does not indicate denial or freeze. It represents a normal sequence stage prior to issuance. The transcript may later show refund issuance codes once payment is processed.
Where Users Usually See This Code
- In refund tracking tools
- After processing approval
- Prior to deposit or check issuance
Why This Code Appears
- Approval stage completed
- Payment batch processing pending
- System scheduling for issuance
- Administrative timing sequence
What Typically Happens Next
- Refund issuance code may post
- Payment is transmitted
- Account balance updates
What This Code Is Not
- It is not a refund freeze
- It is not a delay caused by review
- It does not indicate fraud
Troubleshooting Checklist
- □ Monitor transcript for code 846
- □ Review bank or payment method records
- □ Check official IRS status tools
- □ Consult official IRS resources if clarification is needed
Notes And Edge Cases
Timing between approval and issuance varies. Batch processing and payment scheduling affect update timing. Transcript entries may reflect issuance shortly after approval status appears.
Related Codes
8 links
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