When you’re eagerly awaiting a tax refund and suddenly see unfamiliar codes like IRS Code 571 on your tax transcript, it can feel confusing and stressful. What does it mean? Is it good or bad news? Will it delay your refund, or is the money on its way?
What Does IRS Code 571 Mean on a Tax Transcript?
IRS Code 571, also known as 571 IRS Code, is one of many transaction codes the IRS uses to communicate actions on your account. Specifically, Code 571 means:
“Reversal of Code 570 – Additional Account Action Pending”
In plain terms, the IRS had previously placed a temporary hold on your account (Code 570), and that issue has now been resolved.
What It Signals:
- A hold or delay on your refund has been lifted
- The IRS has completed its review of your return
- Processing of your tax return has resumed
Seeing IRS Code 571 is generally a positive sign — it means the IRS has cleared the issue that was causing a delay.
Why Did You See Code 571 After Code 570?
It’s common to see Code 570 followed by Code 571 on an IRS transcript. Here’s how the sequence typically unfolds:
- Code 570 appears: This means there’s a temporary hold due to a discrepancy, pending review, or missing information.
- A few days to weeks later, Code 571 appears: The issue has been resolved.
- Eventually, you may see Code 846: This indicates your refund has been approved and is being issued.
Important: Just because 571 appears doesn’t mean your refund is being sent immediately. It only means the IRS has resolved the issue.
Common Reasons for Code 570:
- Identity verification checks
- Mismatched income or dependent claims
- Additional review of earned income tax credit (EITC) or child tax credit (CTC)
After resolving any discrepancies, the IRS updates your account with Code 571, effectively removing the hold.
How Long After Code 571 Will You Get Your Refund?
If you’ve seen Code 571, your next question is likely: “When will I get my refund?”
- Most taxpayers receive their refund within 1–2 weeks after Code 571.
However, delays can occur due to:
- Volume of returns during peak season
- Manual review follow-ups
- Bank processing times
The appearance of Code 846 (Refund Issued) on your transcript is the most reliable indicator that your money is on the way.
You can monitor progress through:
What Should You Do If You See Code 571?
Good news — IRS Code 571 typically means no immediate action is needed on your part. It simply indicates that a previous hold (Code 570) has been lifted, and your return is back in processing.
Recommended Next Steps:
- Check your IRS transcript daily for updates — you’re looking for Code 846 (Refund Issued).
- Track your refund status using Where’s My Refund? or the IRS2Go app.
- Contact the IRS only if:
- It’s been more than 21 days since Code 571 appeared.
- You haven’t received your refund or seen any new update.
Can Code 571 Be Followed by Other Codes?
Yes — and that’s completely normal. Seeing IRS Code 571 on your tax transcript typically means a previous hold (Code 570) has been reversed, and the IRS is moving forward with processing your return. But it’s natural to see additional codes after 571, depending on your situation.
Most Common Next Code:
Code 846 – Refund Issued: This is the best-case scenario. If you see Code 846, it means your refund has been approved, and a payment date is set. This is usually the next step after 571 in a straightforward return.
Less Common Scenarios:
Sometimes, other codes may appear due to changes or unresolved issues:
- Code 902 – Return sent for further examination or documentation.
- Code 810 or 811 – Refund freeze or reversal of a freeze.
- Code 971 – Notice issued regarding changes or adjustments to your return.
- Code 290 or 291 – Additional tax assessed or removed after IRS review
These codes may indicate the IRS is conducting additional review, clarification, or audit, but they don’t automatically mean something is wrong.
When Should You Contact the IRS?
While Code 571 itself doesn’t require action, here are situations when it’s appropriate to reach out:
Contact the IRS if:
- 21+ days have passed since Code 571 appeared with no refund
- You see a new hold code without explanation
- Your refund status in “Where’s My Refund?” hasn’t updated
How to Reach the IRS:
- Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040
- Best time to call: Early morning on weekdays
- Have your tax return and transcript ready when calling
- Alternatively, consider getting help from professionals like Tax Relief Helpers who can advocate on your behalf.
Final Thoughts
Seeing IRS Code 571 on your tax transcript can initially be confusing, but it’s a sign that things are moving in the right direction. It means the IRS has lifted a previous hold, and your refund may soon be on the way.
While it doesn’t guarantee an immediate payment, staying informed and monitoring your transcript regularly can help you stay ahead of any potential issues. And if delays persist, don’t hesitate to reach out to the IRS or consult tax professionals like Tax Relief Helpers for personalized guidance.
Need Help With IRS Issues?
Our team at Tax Relief Helpers specializes in helping taxpayers resolve refund delays, audits, and account discrepancies. If you’re stuck or unsure how to proceed, contact us today — we’re here to help.
FAQs About IRS Code 571
Is Code 571 a Good or Bad Sign?
Good! It means a previous hold (Code 570) has been reversed.
Will I Get a Refund After Code 571?
Most likely, yes. Once Code 571 appears, refund processing usually resumes and leads to Code 846.
How Soon After 571 Will I Get Paid?
Typically within 1–2 weeks, but it can vary.
Can I Still Get Audited After Code 571?
Yes — resolving one issue doesn’t eliminate the chance of a future audit. But Code 571 itself does not trigger an audit.
Is Code 846 Guaranteed After 571?
It’s not guaranteed, but it’s the most common next step.
Written by: Thomas Brooks
Published: September 22, 2025