“Received” status for nearly all of the 3 months with no movement to “processed” and can not get any connection with human aid. Automated system not helpful. There’s got to be a way to contact someone for answers and expectations.
So if the IRS "Where's My Refund" tool has been showing your mailed return was received, then you at least know they have it.
Usually a mailed return can take at least 6 weeks to process. If yours is going on 12 weeks, you can phone the IRS, if you wish, and speak to a live agent to inquire about the delay. You have to "trick" their automated phone menu to get to a live agent. I'll tell you the steps below to get through the menu.
This IRS FAQ gives some situations where it might take longer than usual to process a return.
https://www.irs.gov/refunds/tax-season-refund-frequently-asked-questions
If you don't get good results when talking to the IRS, and if you are having an economic hardship, we can tell you how to reach the IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service for assistance. But first, here's how to normally reach someone at the IRS:
IRS: 800-829-1040 (7AM-7 PM local time) Monday-Friday
When calling the IRS do not choose the first choice re: "Refund", or it will send you to an automated phone line.