Facing an IRS identity verification request can be a bit daunting, but don't worry, you're not alone! The IRS takes identity theft very seriously, and sometimes, to protect you, they need to confirm that it's really you filing your tax return. This guide will walk you through the process of calling the IRS to verify your identity, helping you be prepared and confident.
Ready to Verify Your Identity with the IRS? Let's Get Started!
Have you received a letter from the IRS asking you to verify your identity, such as a Letter 5071C or 4883C? If so, you're in the right place! These letters indicate that the IRS has flagged your return for potential identity theft and needs you to confirm your identity before they can process your tax return and issue any refund. Ignoring these letters can significantly delay your refund and cause further complications.
The IRS usually prefers that taxpayers use their online identity verification service, as it can often be faster. However, if you prefer to call, or if the online system isn't working for you, here's a detailed, step-by-step guide to navigating the phone verification process.
Step 1: Understand Why You're Calling
Before you even dial, it's crucial to understand why the IRS is asking you to verify your identity. This usually happens when they detect something unusual about your tax return that suggests it might not have been filed by you. This could be due to:
- Suspected Identity Theft: Someone might have filed a fraudulent return using your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- Unusual Filing Activity: Your current tax return might have discrepancies with your previous filing history.
- Data Breach: Your personal information may have been compromised in a data breach, and the IRS is taking proactive steps to protect your account.
Knowing the reason helps you anticipate the types of questions they might ask.
Step 2: Gather All Necessary Documents – Preparation is Key!
This is arguably the most critical step. The IRS agent will ask you a series of questions to confirm your identity, and you'll need specific documents at hand to answer them accurately and quickly. Do not call the IRS without these documents readily available.
Sub-heading: Essential Documents to Have Beside You:
- The IRS Letter You Received: This is paramount. Whether it's a Letter 5071C, 4883C, or another identity verification notice, it will contain important instructions and often a specific phone number for identity verification. Keep the letter number visible.
- Your Current Year Tax Return: Have a complete copy of the tax return you filed for the year in question, including all supporting forms and schedules (e.g., W-2s, 1099s, Schedule C, F, etc.). The agent will verify information directly from this return.
- Your Prior Year Tax Return(s): The IRS may ask questions based on your previous year's tax filing to confirm your identity. Have your complete prior year tax return (ideally the one immediately preceding the year in question) and its supporting documents available.
- Social Security Numbers (SSNs) and Birth Dates: Be prepared to provide the SSNs and birth dates for everyone listed on the tax return you are verifying (yourself, your spouse, and any dependents).
- Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) Letter (if applicable): If you have an ITIN instead of an SSN, have your ITIN assignment letter ready.
- Your Filing Status: Know your filing status for the tax return in question (e.g., Single, Married Filing Jointly, Head of Household, etc.).
- Any Other IRS Letters or Notices: If you've received any other correspondence from the IRS recently, have those as well. They might contain information relevant to your account.
- Valid Photo Identification: While you won't necessarily be asked to send a photo of your ID over the phone, having it nearby can help you quickly recall information if needed (e.g., date of birth, address).
Having all of this information organized and within reach will significantly speed up the verification process and reduce frustration.
Step 3: Find the Correct IRS Phone Number and Call
It's crucial to call the correct IRS phone number for identity verification.
Sub-heading: The Dedicated Identity Verification Line:
- Look for the Number on Your Letter: The most reliable phone number for identity verification will be printed directly on the IRS letter (e.g., 5071C or 4883C) you received. This number is specifically for identity and tax return verification purposes only.
- General Identity Protection Program (TPP) Line: If you've misplaced your letter, you can often call the Taxpayer Protection Program (TPP) phone line at 800-830-5084. If you are outside the U.S., the number is 267-941-1000.
- Avoid General IRS Helplines for Identity Verification: While the general IRS helpline (800-829-1040 for individuals) can answer many tax questions, it's best to use the specific identity verification number provided on your letter or the TPP line, as these agents are trained specifically for identity authentication.
Sub-heading: Best Times to Call:
- The IRS experiences high call volumes, especially during tax season. To minimize your wait time, try calling:
- Early in the morning: Soon after their lines open (typically 7:00 AM local time, Monday to Friday).
- Late in the afternoon: Closer to closing time (typically 7:00 PM local time).
- Mid-week: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays often have shorter wait times than Mondays and Fridays.
- Be prepared for potential hold times. Have something to occupy yourself while you wait.
Step 4: Navigate the Automated System and Speak to an Agent
Once you dial the number, you'll likely encounter an automated system.
Sub-heading: Getting to a Live Person:
- Listen Carefully: Pay close attention to the prompts. The system may ask for your Social Security Number or other identifying information. It's often recommended not to enter anything on the first prompt for SSN or EIN if you want to reach a live person faster. The system might ask a second time, and then present you with more options.
- Follow Prompts for Identity Verification: Look for options related to "identity verification," "tax return verification," or similar phrases.
- Be Patient: If you're struggling to get to a live person through the automated system, sometimes repeatedly pressing "0" or saying "agent" or "representative" can help, though this is not always guaranteed to work with all IRS systems. The goal is to reach an agent who specializes in identity verification.
Step 5: The Verification Call – What to Expect
When you connect with an IRS agent, they will begin the verification process.
Sub-heading: The Conversation Flow:
- Initial Greetings and Identity Confirmation: The agent will introduce themselves and likely ask for your name and the reason for your call (identity verification). They will then start asking for identifying information to confirm they are speaking with the correct person.
- Questions from Your Tax Returns: This is where your preparedness in Step 2 pays off. The agent will ask specific questions about your current and prior year tax returns. These questions are designed to be known only by the actual taxpayer. Examples include:
- Your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) from a specific tax year.
- The exact amount of a specific credit or deduction you claimed.
- Income figures from specific W-2s or 1099s.
- The bank account number where you requested a direct deposit.
- Details about dependents (names, birth dates, SSNs).
- Answering Accurately and Clearly: Provide the information calmly and accurately. If you're unsure about a detail, tell the agent you need a moment to confirm it from your documents.
- Fraudulent Return Discussion (if applicable): If the IRS suspects a fraudulent return was filed in your name, the agent may ask you if you filed the return in question. Be honest. If you did not file it, clearly state that.
- Third-Party Authorization (if someone is helping you): If you have someone else (like a tax professional or a family member) on the call to assist you, you must explicitly grant the IRS agent authorization to disclose your confidential tax information to that third party during the call. This authorization is typically limited to that specific conversation. If you need someone to call on your behalf, they will need proper authorization like a Form 2848 (Power of Attorney) or Form 8821 (Tax Information Authorization) on file with the IRS.
- Confirmation of Verification: Once you successfully answer the verification questions, the agent will inform you that your identity has been verified.
- Next Steps: The agent will then explain the next steps regarding your tax return. Typically, once verified, your return will be processed, which can take approximately 6 to 9 weeks. They may not be able to provide specific refund dates during this call, as it's primarily for identity verification.
It's crucial to remain polite and cooperative throughout the call. The agents are there to help you resolve the issue and protect your identity.
Step 6: What Happens After Verification?
Once your identity is successfully verified over the phone, the IRS will resume processing your tax return.
Sub-heading: Processing and Refunds:
- Processing Time: As mentioned, expect your return to be processed within 6 to 9 weeks after successful verification.
- Checking Refund Status: You can track your refund status using the "Where's My Refund?" tool on the IRS website (IRS.gov/refunds). This tool is generally updated within 24 hours after your return is processed.
- Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN): In some cases, especially if you were a victim of identity theft, the IRS might offer you or automatically issue you an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) for future tax years. This is a unique six-digit number that only you and the IRS should know, and it helps prevent fraudulent returns from being filed in your name. If you receive one, keep it safe and use it on all future tax returns.
Congratulations! You've successfully navigated the IRS identity verification process.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to find the correct IRS phone number for identity verification?
The most accurate phone number is on the IRS letter you received (e.g., 5071C or 4883C). Otherwise, use the Taxpayer Protection Program (TPP) line at 800-830-5084 (or 267-941-1000 if outside the U.S.).
How to prepare for an IRS identity verification phone call?
Gather your IRS letter, current and prior year tax returns with all supporting documents (W-2s, 1099s, etc.), SSNs and birth dates for everyone on your return, and know your filing status.
How to get through to a live person at the IRS for identity verification?
Call the specific identity verification number. When prompted for your SSN or EIN, you might try not entering anything initially, then listening for options to speak to a representative, or pressing "0" or saying "agent" if those options are available.
How to answer IRS identity verification questions correctly?
Refer to your prepared documents (current and prior year tax returns) to provide accurate figures and details as requested by the agent. Be precise with numbers like AGI or specific deductions/credits.
How to check the status of my tax return after IRS identity verification?
Once verified, your return typically takes 6 to 9 weeks to process. You can check the status using the "Where's My Refund?" tool on the IRS website (IRS.gov/refunds).
How to get an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) from the IRS?
If you've been a victim of identity theft, the IRS may automatically issue you an IP PIN. You can also opt-in to the IP PIN program through your IRS Online Account or by filing Form 15227, Application for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number.
How to deal with long wait times when calling the IRS?
Call early in the morning or late in the afternoon on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays to potentially reduce wait times. Be prepared to wait, and have something to do while on hold.
How to verify identity with the IRS if I don't have my prior year tax return?
While highly recommended, if you don't have your prior year return, you might still be able to verify using sufficient information from your current year return and other personal details. The agent will guide you. You can also try to obtain tax transcripts from the IRS website.
How to handle an IRS identity verification letter if I didn't file a tax return?
You should still call the number on the letter or the TPP line (800-830-5084) to inform the IRS that you did not file the return in question. This helps them flag the fraudulent activity.
How to authorize someone else to speak to the IRS on my behalf for identity verification?
If you want someone on the call with you, you must orally authorize the IRS agent to speak with them during the call. For someone to call on your behalf without you present, they generally need a Form 2848 (Power of Attorney) or Form 8821 (Tax Information Authorization) on file with the IRS.
