Code 571 means the IRS is still processing your return

When you see code 571 on your IRS account transcript, it means your return has been received and is in the queue for processing. The IRS has not yet reviewed it for accuracy, verified your income, or approved your refund. Code 571 is a holding pattern, not a delay — it is the normal first step after the IRS receives your filing.

The time from code 571 to refund varies. If you filed electronically and everything on your return matches IRS records, you may see movement within 21 days. If you filed on paper, if your return requires manual review, or if the IRS needs to verify information with your employer or financial institution, the timeline stretches to 6 weeks or longer. The IRS does not publish a fixed schedule for code 571 specifically — the duration depends on filing method, return complexity, and current processing volume.

Key Takeaways

  • Code 571 indicates your return is received and queued for processing, not that it is delayed or rejected.
  • Electronic returns with code 571 typically move to the next processing stage within 21 days if no issues are found.
  • Paper returns and returns requiring verification can remain at code 571 for 6 weeks or longer.
  • You can check your refund status in the IRS Where's My Refund tool, which updates every 24 hours and shows the current code on your account transcript.

How long code 571 typically lasts

For an electronically filed return with no discrepancies, code 571 usually clears within 21 days. The IRS processes e-filed returns in batches, and if your Social Security number, filing status, and reported income align with what the IRS already has on file, your return moves through quickly. You will see a new code — often 846, which means a refund has been issued — within that window.

Paper returns move slower. If you mailed your return, it first enters a scanning queue, then moves to code 571. From that point, expect 4 to 8 weeks before the next update. The IRS must physically open, scan, and manually enter data from paper returns, which adds processing time regardless of return complexity.

Returns that trigger verification checks stay at code 571 longer. If the IRS needs to confirm your income with your employer, verify a dependent's Social Security number, or cross-check information with state tax authorities, code 571 can persist for 8 weeks or more. You will not see a notification that verification is happening — the code straightforward does not change until the check is complete.

What happens after code 571 clears

Once the IRS finishes its initial review, code 571 is replaced by another code. Code 846 means your refund has been approved and issued — the IRS will deposit it to your bank account or mail a check within the timeframe you selected at filing. Code 570 means the IRS has a question and needs more information from you; you will receive a letter explaining what is needed. Code 971 means the IRS is examining your return in detail, which can take several months.

The code that replaces 571 determines your next step. If you see 846, you are done waiting — check your bank account or mail for the refund. If you see 570 or 971, you need to respond to the IRS notice. If code 571 straightforward does not change after 8 weeks, contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 to confirm your return was received.

Why your code 571 might be taking longer than expected

The most common reason code 571 persists is a mismatch between what you reported and what the IRS has on file. If you reported a dependent but the Social Security number does not match IRS records, or if your reported income differs significantly from what your employer reported on a W-2, the IRS flags your return for manual review. This review happens at code 571 and can add 4 to 6 weeks.

Filing method also matters. If you filed on paper, your return must be scanned and manually entered before it even reaches the processing stage where code 571 appears. This alone can add 2 to 3 weeks. If you filed electronically but included a paper document (such as a signed Form 8453), the IRS must match the electronic and paper versions, which delays processing.

Volume affects timing too. During peak filing season (February through April), the IRS processes millions of returns simultaneously. Code 571 can last longer straightforward because the queue is longer. Returns filed in May or June typically clear code 571 faster because processing volume is lower.

How to check what code 571 means for your specific return

The IRS Where's My Refund tool shows your current code and an estimated date for the next update. Go to irs.gov, select "Check my refund status," and enter your Social Security number, filing status, and refund amount. The tool updates once per day, usually overnight. If it says code 571 and gives an estimated date, that date is when the IRS expects to complete its initial review and issue a new code.

Do not rely on the estimated date as a may provide — it is an average based on return type and current processing speed, not a commitment. If the date passes and code 571 is still showing, wait another week before contacting the IRS. Processing delays of a few days are normal.

Your IRS account transcript also shows code 571 and any related notes. You can view your transcript at irs.gov under "Get Your Tax Record." The transcript is more detailed than Where's My Refund and may show if the IRS is waiting for information from you or conducting verification.

What you should and should not do while code 571 is active

Do not file an amended return (Form 1040-X) while code 571 is showing. The IRS is still processing your original return, and filing an amendment creates confusion and delays both returns. Wait until code 571 clears and you receive your refund before amending anything.

Do not contact the IRS unless code 571 has been showing for more than 8 weeks. The IRS expects code 571 to last at least 21 days for e-filed returns and 4 to 8 weeks for paper returns. Calling before that window closes will not speed up processing and will tie up phone lines for people with genuine problems.

Do check Where's My Refund every few days if you are waiting for a specific date. The tool updates daily, so you will see the moment code 571 changes to something else. You can also set up IRS text or email notifications, which alert you when your refund status updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is code 571 the same as a delay?

No. Code 571 is the normal processing status for every return after it is received. It becomes a delay only if it lasts longer than expected for your filing method. E-filed returns should move past code 571 within 21 days; paper returns within 4 to 8 weeks. If yours is still showing code 571 after that window, contact the IRS.

Can I get my refund before code 571 clears?

No. The IRS must complete its initial review and issue code 846 before any refund is released. Code 571 is a prerequisite step. You cannot bypass it or speed it up by calling or visiting an IRS office.

What if code 571 never changes?

If code 571 is still showing after 8 weeks, your return may not have been received or entered into the system correctly. Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 with your Social Security number and filing status. They can confirm receipt and check for processing errors.

Does code 571 mean I will owe money instead of getting a refund?

No. Code 571 only indicates processing status, not the outcome. The IRS will not know whether you owe or are owed until the review is complete. Code 571 can be followed by code 846 (refund issued) or code 570 (more information needed), among others.

Can I file an amended return while code 571 is showing?

You should not. Filing an amendment while your original return is at code 571 creates duplicate processing and delays both returns. Wait until code 571 clears and you receive your refund, then file the amendment if needed.