What does "Code 846" mean on an IRS transcript?
The short answer
Code 846 means the IRS approved your refund and sent it, with the date showing when payment was issued.
What Code 846 tells you
On an IRS account transcript, Code 846 = “Refund Issued.”
It usually includes a date and a refund amount.
- Date listed: when the IRS says it issued the refund
- Amount listed: what they sent after any adjustments
- Good sign: this is typically the final step before money arrives
When will you get the money?
The Code 846 date is not always the exact day cash hits your account.
- Direct deposit: often within a few days of that date
- Paper check: can take longer (mail time)
- Delays happen if your bank is slow, your account info is wrong, or the IRS offset part of your refund
Why your refund might be different
If the amount is lower than expected, the IRS may have applied part of it to other debts.
Look for other transcript codes or IRS notices about:
- Past-due federal/state taxes
- Child support
- Certain federal debts
When should you worry?
If you see Code 846 but no refund yet:
- Wait 5 business days after the issue date for direct deposit
- Wait up to 4 weeks for a mailed check
- Check Where’s My Refund? on IRS.gov
- Verify your bank account details and filing info
If it still hasn’t arrived, contact the IRS and have your transcript handy.