You checked your IRS transcript this morning. Last week, it showed Code 570 (a freeze on your refund). Today, you finally see a Code 571. You think you are safe. You are not.
Here is the bottom line up front: Code 571 means the IRS has resolved the initial hold on your 2025 tax return. However, if this code appears alongside a changed refund amount or a pending notice, ignoring it can delay your payout indefinitely. You must act before the 30-day response window closes.
Millions of taxpayers are falling into this exact trap during the 2026 tax season. They assume the 571 means an automatic deposit. Then, weeks pass with no money. Do not let this happen to you.
Q: What Exactly is the Code 571 “Trap”?
When the IRS places a Code 570 on your account, they are halting your return to verify income, credits, or identity. A Code 571 officially lifts that specific freeze.
The “trap” happens when the IRS resolves the hold by adjusting your refund amount downward. If they adjusted your return due to an error, they will mail you a notice. If you ignore this notice, the IRS system can pause your final payout until you confirm the changes.
Q: How Do I Know If I Am Affected?
You need to pull your official 2026 account transcript immediately. Look at the date next to your Code 571.
If you see another code—specifically Code 971 (Notice Issued)—directly under it, the IRS needs you to read their letter before processing your final check. For example, taxpayer J. Doe had an expected refund of $1,420.50. Her transcript updated to 571, but because she ignored the 971 notice requesting simple verification, her funds sat in limbo for months.
Q: What Are the Common Transcript Codes to Watch For?
Understanding your transcript is your best defense against endless delays. Here is exactly what you should be looking for:
| Transcript Code | Official Meaning | What You Must Do |
| Code 570 | Additional Account Action Pending | Wait. Your refund is frozen for review. |
| Code 571 | Resolved Additional Account Action | The freeze is lifted. Check for adjustments. |
| Code 971 | Notice Issued | Watch your mailbox. A letter is coming. |
| Code 846 | Refund Issued | Success! Your deposit date is scheduled. |
Q: What is My Deadline to Respond?
If your Code 571 is paired with a Code 971 notice, you typically have exactly 30 days to respond to the letter. Missing this deadline means the IRS will finalize the adjustments without your input.
If they requested identity verification, failing to respond means your return goes into the “dead file” until you contact them. Always verify your status through the official IRS.gov portal to pull your latest transcript.
Next Steps to Protect Your 2025 Refund:
- Check your transcript weekly: Updates usually happen overnight on Thursdays and Fridays.
- Match your numbers: Ensure the amount next to your Code 571 matches your original filed return.
- Monitor your mail: The IRS will not email or text you about a Code 971 notice.
- Do not amend: Filing an amended return right now will cause a massive secondary delay.
Stay vigilant. The 2026 tax season is moving slowly, but understanding these codes puts the control back in your hands.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Always consult official government resources.
Evan Cole Editor-in-Chief | Breaking News & Public Policy
“From Washington to Wall Street, and Main Street to Hollywood—Evan Cole connects the dots.”
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