IRS Notice CP05: Refund on hold while return is verified
Quick answerThe IRS is reviewing your return to verify income, withholding or credits before releasing your refund.
Letter / noticeCP05
MeaningRefund on hold while return is verified
Action needed?Usually no
What happens next
Reviews typically take up to about 60 days.
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What you should do
- No response needed unless the IRS asks
- Keep your records together
Scam check: the IRS first contacts you by mail. Use only the phone numbers printed on your letter or on IRS.gov — never ones from a text, email or unofficial site.
Frequently asked questions
What does IRS Notice CP05 mean?
The IRS is reviewing your return to verify income, withholding or credits before releasing your refund.
What should I do?
No response needed unless the IRS asks Keep your records together
How long does it take?
Reviews typically take up to about 60 days.
Sources
- IRS: Understanding your IRS notice or letter
- IRS: Get Transcript
- Taxpayer Advocate Service (independent help inside the IRS)
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.