Federal tax return was accepted 2/16 but I still don't even have a transcript available. Is it time to call, and what number? My husband filed 2/17 and got his weeks ago.

[k-graffeomartin]

This cost me stimulus for one of my children already, as we claimed them differently this year - but they used his 2020 return and my 2019.

When I check Where's My Refund, I don't have a tax topic or anything. Haven't received any notices in the mail.

What can I do to make sure we aren't slipping through the cracks here? Is there a number I can call? I had found one but every time I try it won't even put me on hold. I'm separated from my husband, my refund was a big deal for my kids and I this year and now I'm stressed! Any help appreciated.

[SweetieJean]

The IRS is seriously backlogged due to all the recent new tax laws and extra stimulus filings, as well as a few million unprocessed 2019 returns left over from the COVID shutdown.  In addition, the Where's My Refund site has been erratic and unreliable.  But if TT told you the IRS Accepted your filing for processing, then the government has it.  (Approved is a later step, but TT receives no further updates once Accepted.)  Contacting the IRS will not speed things up, and they have implored taxpayers not to call.  Lots of other folks are still waiting, so please continue to be patient. Also see:

The IRS is under serious stress — what does that mean for your refund? (msn.com)

What led to IRS backlog: ‘Thin workforce,’ new pandemic relief programs | Federal News Network

[k-graffeomartin]

Thank you for your response. I understand they are backlogged but I would like to avoid unnecessarily being the one who ends up getting mine in 2022 (I want to lol but that would not be funny) because there was an identity confirmation or something else they needed and I didn't receive notice - which I understand has happened to many people, who would have had no idea had they not called. 

Do you know of a best number where I can reach someone? My family is not in a position to just sit around and wait, I'm well past our 21 days and want to ensure there's truly nothing I need to/can do.