TranscriptCodes

IRS code 846: Refund issued

Quick answerThe IRS has issued your refund. The date next to the code is when the IRS released it, not necessarily when it reaches your bank.
Transcript code846
MeaningRefund issued
Action needed?Yes — see steps

What happens next

Direct deposits usually arrive within about 1–5 days of the date; paper checks take longer.
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What you should do

  1. Check your bank on or shortly after the date shown
  2. If nothing arrives after 28 days, you can request a refund trace
Waiting on your refund? See our estimated IRS refund schedule for 2027 by e-file acceptance week.
IRS code 846 explained: Refund issued — what it means and what to do next
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Frequently asked questions

What does IRS code 846 mean?

The IRS has issued your refund. The date next to the code is when the IRS released it, not necessarily when it reaches your bank.

What should I do?

Check your bank on or shortly after the date shown If nothing arrives after 28 days, you can request a refund trace

How long does it take?

Direct deposits usually arrive within about 1–5 days of the date; paper checks take longer.

Sources

Written by the editorial team and checked against the official sources above. See our editorial policy.

By the TranscriptCodes Editorial Team · Last reviewed 2026-11-12.