Verifying Your Identity with the IRS

The IRS continues to increase its efforts to combat fraudulently filed tax returns. As part of these efforts to decrease fraud, the IRS may send taxpayers a Letter 5071C asking for verification of identity associated with a potentially fraudulent return. Additionally, the IRS uses ID.me, a trusted technology provider, for taxpayers to securely access IRS online tools and services.

The IRS may choose to validate a taxpayer's identity if:

If you receive a Letter 5071C, it is important that you respond immediately. Doing so will help prevent further delays in processing your return.

You should also keep in mind that the IRS will NEVER call you or e-mail you to initiate identity verification requests. All such requests are made in writing; there are no exceptions to this. If you receive a call from someone asking you to verify your identity and claiming to be with the IRS, it is a scam.

How to Verify Your Identity for Letter 5071C

The letter you receive will explain how to verify your identity. The IRS offers only two ways to verify your identity: online at the IRS Identity Verification Service website or by phone at the toll-free number listed on your 5071C Letter. Only those who receive a 5071C Letter should use the verification system.

The IRS prefers that taxpayers use the online system located at https://idverify.irs.gov. Phone callers may experience delays due to high call volume. The phone number on your letter can be used only for verification purposes, not for any other tax issues.

The verification questions pertain to the taxpayer and their past tax returns. To verify your identity, you'll need both your previous year's tax return and your current year's tax return, along with all supporting forms and schedules such as W-2s and 1099s.

Despite the letter arriving through the mail you are not advised to respond via mail. There have been cases of letters that ask for personal taxpayer information, which were not sent by the IRS. To avoid taxpayer scams, always call the IRS prior to providing any personal information or mailing correspondence. Also, NEVER provide information over the phone to someone who has called you claiming to be an IRS representative.

After successful verification, it takes approximately six weeks to complete processing. The return will be rejected and investigated as identity theft if verification fails to confirm your identity, if you did not file the return, or if the verification process is not completed.

ID.me Verification for IRS Online Tools

The IRS uses ID.me to provide identity verification and sign-in services for taxpayers to securely access IRS online tools. This new process is part of the agency's Identity, Credential, and Access Management (ICAM) initiatives. Anyone with an existing ID.me account from another government agency can sign in with their existing credentials.

Taxpayers can access these IRS online services using ID.me:

To verify their identity with ID.me, taxpayers need to provide a photo of an identity document such as a driver's license, state ID, or passport. 

They'll also need to take a selfie with a smartphone or a computer with a webcam. Once their identity has been verified, they can securely access IRS online services. More information about the ID.me verification process can be found on the IRS website, here.

Identity Protection PIN

If you have experienced identity theft problems in the past, you may need an Identity Protection PIN. This PIN is assigned by the IRS and used along with your Social Security number to file your taxes. It adds an extra layer of protection for those who have already had their Social Security number compromised. You can obtain or retrieve your IP PIN through the IRS online system using ID.me verification.

Taxpayers who need help verifying their identity with ID.me or submitting a support ticket can visit the ID.me IRS Help Site.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an IRS Letter 5071C?
Letter 5071C is a notice the IRS sends when it suspects that a tax return filed with your name and Social Security number may be the result of identity theft. The letter asks you to verify your identity and confirm whether you actually filed the return. You must respond to this letter to avoid rejection of your return.

How long does verification take?
After successfully verifying your identity for a Letter 5071C, it typically takes about six weeks for the IRS to complete processing your return. If verification fails or is not completed, the return will be rejected and investigated for identity theft.

Can I verify my identity by mail?
No. The IRS does not accept identity verification by mail due to security concerns. You must verify online at the IRS Identity Verification Service website or by calling the toll-free number on your Letter 5071C. Never mail personal information in response to verification requests.

What if I didn't file the return mentioned in the letter?
If you receive a Letter 5071C about a return you didn't file, you should still complete the verification process and indicate that you did not file the return. The IRS will then investigate it as identity theft. You may also need to file Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit.

Do I need ID.me to access all IRS services?
ID.me is required to access certain IRS online self-service tools like Online Account, Get Transcript Online, and IP PIN retrieval. However, you do not need ID.me to file your tax return or communicate with the IRS by phone or mail.

 

 

Q&A: What do I do if my tax return is rejected because my Social Security Number has already been used?

If the IRS has rejected your return because it has already accepted a tax return with your Social Security Number the first thing you should do is confirm with your spouse or other family members to ensure they have not filed on your behalf. If this is not the case, your next step is to contact the IRS' Tax Fraud Hotline. The phone number for this is 1-800-829-0433. The IRS Fraud Hotline will provide you with additional information regarding how to proceed with your filing.