Tax return under review | Return in review status

Industry

IRS / Tax

Canonical

/irs-tax/error-codes/tax-return-under-review/

Last Updated

Feb 25, 2026

Summary

This status indicates that the IRS has placed the tax return into a review stage before final processing.

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What This Code Means

“Tax return under review” reflects that the return is undergoing additional examination or verification steps. It is not necessarily an audit but indicates that automated or manual review is occurring. The review may involve income verification, credit validation, or compliance checks. The status represents a temporary stage before final determination. It does not specify outcome within the phrase itself.

Where Users Usually See This Code

In refund status tools
On account transcripts in conjunction with review codes
During monitoring of processing delays

Why This Code Appears

Identity verification procedures initiated
Automated review flagged return elements
Credit or income discrepancies required validation
Compliance screening occurred

What Typically Happens Next

Resolution codes may post
Refund issuance may follow review completion
Notices may be issued

What This Code Is Not

It is not confirmation of audit
It is not automatic denial
It does not specify timeline

Troubleshooting Checklist

□ Monitor transcript for resolution codes
□ Review official communications
□ Check refund status periodically
□ Consult official IRS resources if clarification is needed

Notes And Edge Cases

Review duration depends on the nature of the flagged items. Transcript entries often provide more specific detail than general status messages. Not all reviews result in adjustments.

Related Codes

8 links

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