Retirement tax questions

I think I did get interest, but I honestly can't remember.

 

I tried calling the IRS a few times but it mostly was an ordeal of a lengthy automated hold followed by "we're too busy now, call back later <click>" message, so I gave up.

 

My request was denied the first time (took them about a year for that), I appealed in writing and then a year after that got the approval and the funds back.