I know the feeling. It’s February 16, 2026, and you’ve checked your IRS transcript, seen that glorious Code 846 (Refund Issued), but your Chase, Wells Fargo, or Bank of America account still shows nothing. Your friends with neo-banks like Chime are already posting screenshots of their balances, and you’re wondering, “Where is my money?”
Don’t panic. Your IRS Refund Pending 2026 money isn’t lost; it’s likely navigating the intricate (and often frustrating) world of the ACH clearinghouse.
Understanding IRS Refund Pending 2026: The Code 846 Mystery
For taxpayers, especially those banking with major institutions like Chase, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America, seeing a Code 846 on your transcript without money in the bank is confusing. Here is the reality:
While neo-banks front the money as soon as they see the notification, traditional banks wait for the actual ACH Settlement Date to release funds. This is a safety measure, but it feels like a penalty for loyal customers.
Why Your Deposit is “Hidden”: The ACH Process
The IRS Refund Pending 2026 status usually means your funds are sitting in the Federal Reserve’s ACH (Automated Clearing House) system. Think of it as a digital waiting room.
- Neo-Banks (Chime/Varo): See the money entering the room and give it to you immediately (Early Pay).
- Traditional Banks (Chase/BOA): Wait until the money officially leaves the room and settles in their vault before showing it to you.
Bank-by-Bank Release Schedule 2026
Based on historical data, here is when you can expect your IRS Refund Pending 2026 deposit to clear if you have a Code 846 date of Feb 24, 2026:
| Bank Name | Expected Release Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chase | Feb 24, 3:00 AM – 6:00 AM EST | Strictly adheres to the DDD. Rarely early. |
| Wells Fargo | Feb 24, 2:00 AM – 7:00 AM EST | Often processes in overnight batches. |
| Bank of America | Feb 24, 1:00 AM – 5:00 AM EST | Consistent release on the settlement day. |
| Credit Unions | Feb 23 (Afternoon) or Feb 24 | Some local CUs may release 1 day early. |
For a broader look at dates, check the IRS Refund Schedule 2026.
FAQ: IRS Refund Pending 2026
Q: My WMR says “Sent” but my bank account is empty. Why?
A: This is the classic IRS Refund Pending 2026 scenario. It means the IRS sent the file, but your bank is holding it until the official settlement date (usually Wednesday).
Q: Does calling the bank help speed it up?
A: Unfortunately, no. Customer service reps often cannot see pending ACH files until they post to your account.
Q: What if I don’t see funds by the Code 846 date?
A: If 24 hours pass after your DDD and nothing arrives, contact the IRS. Also, verify you didn’t have a “Refund Transfer” fee deducted, which adds 1-2 days.