IRS transcript code

TC-420 — what it means on your transcript

Transaction Code 420. Examination indicator — indicates the return has been selected for audit. An open TC-420 is a flag that an audit is in progress or pending. Plain-language context for households; resolution implications for professionals below.

Definition

Transaction Code 420. Examination indicator — indicates the return has been selected for audit. An open TC-420 is a flag that an audit is in progress or pending.

What it means for your account

An open exam generally blocks OIC acceptance. Resolve or wait out examination before treating the year as a collection-only problem.

Related codes

TC-424 · TC-150 · TC-570 ·

Where Brevitax uses it

Brevitax reads these postings from account transcripts and surfaces them as plain-language timeline events and attention items — not as a raw code list. Upload transcripts or have Brevitax request them, then see TC-420 in context on your dashboard.

Common questions

What does TC-420 mean on an IRS transcript?

Transaction Code 420. Examination indicator — indicates the return has been selected for audit. An open TC-420 is a flag that an audit is in progress or pending.

Why does TC-420 matter for tax resolution?

An open exam generally blocks OIC acceptance. Resolve or wait out examination before treating the year as a collection-only problem.

Where do I find TC-420 on my account transcript?

Look for transaction code 420 in the posting sequence for the tax year. Transaction Code 420. Examination indicator — indicates the return has been selected for audit. An open TC-420 is a flag that an audit is in progress or pending.

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