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IRS CP05: Refund Hold — Return Under Review
Straight answer: A CP05 means the IRS is holding your refund while it reviews items on your return — typically income, withholding, or credits — against third-party data. You don't need to do anything yet.
Is there a deadline for a CP05?
No action required initially. If the IRS needs documents it will send a follow-up (often CP05A) with a deadline. Reviews commonly take up to 60 days, sometimes longer.
What should I do right now?
- Verify your address is current so the follow-up reaches you.
- Gather W-2s, 1099s, and withholding proof now so a CP05A response is same-day.
- If 60+ days pass with no update, call the number on the notice or contact the Taxpayer Advocate Service if the refund creates hardship.
The costly mistake people make with a CP05
Filing a duplicate return to 'shake the refund loose' — it slows everything down and can trigger more scrutiny.
Do I need professional help with a CP05?
Rarely needed unless the review escalates into an audit letter or the refund is very large.
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