Stage 4: Review
Why a second person checks the return, what the check looks for, and why it can take a few days.
Tax season · Version 1 · 2 min read · Reviewed by Meridian Review Team · Sep 15, 2026
What this stage means
A reviewer checks the prepared return against your documents and the practice's standards before it goes to you.
What a review looks for
- Amounts match the source documents.
- The right tax year and the right forms are used.
- Differences from last year are explained.
- Open questions are resolved or noted.
Why it can take time
Review capacity is shared across all clients, and it is busiest near deadlines. A return waiting for review is waiting its turn, not stuck.
What you may be asked
Sometimes review raises a question. Answer through the portal.
What happens next
After review, the return is ready for your signature or authorization. A return is not final because it has been prepared.