IRS CP05 Notice: Refund Hold — Return Under Review
A CP05 notice means the IRS is holding your refund while it verifies information on your return — income, withholding, or credits — and you generally don't need to do anything unless they ask for documents.
Deadline calculator
The CP05 clock runs from the date printed on the notice — not the day you opened it.
Estimate only, based on the standard 60-day CP05 window. Your notice controls — always use the specific date printed on it.
What a CP05 actually means
CP05 reviews are usually triggered by withholding that doesn't match employer reports, credits that need verification (EITC, CTC), or identity-verification screens. It is not an audit and doesn't mean you did anything wrong.
Most CP05 reviews resolve within 60 days with either the refund released or a follow-up letter (like a CP05A) requesting specific documents. Responding fast to any follow-up is the key to getting paid sooner.
What to do, step by step
- 1Don't file a duplicate return — it slows everything down.
- 2Watch for a follow-up letter (CP05A) requesting pay stubs, W-2s, or proof of withholding, and respond immediately if it comes.
- 3Check status with the IRS 'Where's My Refund' tool or your online account.
- 4If 60 days pass with no refund or letter, call the number on the notice, or contact the Taxpayer Advocate Service if you're in financial hardship.
Common questions
How long does a CP05 review take?+
The IRS asks for up to 60 days. Many resolve faster; some drag longer, especially where withholding verification with an employer is slow. Hardship cases can ask the Taxpayer Advocate Service to intervene.
Does a CP05 mean I'm being audited?+
No. It's a pre-refund verification hold, not an examination. Most filers get their full refund once verification completes.
Received a CP05? Get it handled.
Talk to a tax specialist about your notice — free, no pressure, no judgment.