My return was accepted. Then said tax topic 152 then changed to we are still processing your refund a refund date will be provided when available. Do u know why

[Critter · Accepted solution]

This is a normal process ... nothing to be alarmed about. 

[parker-takia]

I am getting the same results....... Still processing, a refund date will be provided when available. I wish I knew what was going on.  I don't think I'll get my refund on the 27th....smh

[Critter]

Still a normal process ... yours may have been side tracked for a review (not an audit) so be patient ...

The IRS no longer processes returns in first in first out batches. They are processed individually so returns sent in at the same time will not necessarily process together.
The IRS states that 9 of 10 returns will process in 21 days or less. However considering that the IRS processes more than 140 million returns that means 14 million will be delayed for more than 21 days.

Think of the IRS process as a long pipe line. Some returns will be rejected before being allowed into the pipe and the rest will be accepted. Then once accepted into the pipeline many will process directly through without any delays and some will not.  Some returns will be siphoned off for further review of some kind. The basis of what triggers these reviews is a well guarded secret but some are just picked randomly every year.

Some reviews are automated and some will require human attention. The processing times will vary and due to the continued understaffing situation   they are likely to take much longer this year than last.

[devinjr2-]

I still have still being processed with no tax topic should I be worried?

[Critter]

Do not worry until the IRS gives you something to worry about.