How to Fix the “Information Does Not Match” Error on Where’s My Refund?

If you’re trying to check your tax refund status using the IRS Where’s My Refund? tool or the IRS2Go app and receive the message:

 “Information does not match. Please reenter your information.”

Don’t panic! This is a common issue that can often be resolved by verifying your details. However, in some cases, this message may indicate an identity verification issue that requires action on your part. Here’s everything you need to know to resolve it.

Why Am I Getting This Error?

The “Information Does Not Match” message appears when the IRS system cannot recognize the details you entered. This could be due to:

• Incorrect Tax Year Selection – Make sure you’ve selected the correct tax year in the dropdown menu. For 2024 returns, choose “2024 (Latest Tax Year).”
• Social Security Number (SSN) Mistakes – Double-check that you entered your SSN exactly as it appears on your tax return. Even one incorrect digit will result in this error.
• Wrong Refund Amount – The refund amount must match exactly what is listed on Line 35a of your Form 1040. If your refund was adjusted due to IRS corrections, use the updated amount instead of the original figure.
• E-Filing vs. Paper Filing Status – If you just filed, your return may not be in the system yet.

• E-filed returns: Wait at least 24-48 hours after acceptance before checking.
• Paper-filed returns: Processing takes 4-6 weeks, so the refund tracker may not have your information yet.
• IRS Processing Schedule – The IRS updates refund statuses once per day, typically overnight. If you check multiple times within the same day, your status won’t change.

Could This Be an Identity Verification Issue?

If you’ve verified all of the above details and still receive the error message after several attempts over multiple days, you may have an identity verification hold.

Signs of an Identity Verification Issue:

• Your refund status never updates and remains stuck on this error.
• You filed early in the tax season and still haven’t seen progress.
• The IRS may have flagged your return for potential fraud or identity theft.

What Should You Do?

Wait for an IRS Identity Verification Letter

• The IRS may mail Letter 5071C, 4883C, or 5747C, instructing you to verify your identity.
• If you receive this letter, follow the instructions carefully to verify your return and identity.

Make Sure Your Address Is Up to Date

• If your mailing address has changed and the IRS does not have your current address, you may never receive the verification letter.
• To update your address with the IRS, submit Form 8822 (Change of Address) or call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040.

Contact the IRS for Assistance
If you don’t receive an identity verification letter but continue seeing the error message:

• Call the IRS Identity Verification Line at 1-800-830-5084 to check if your return is on hold.
• If you can’t verify online, you may need to visit a Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) in person.

How to Fix the “Information Does Not Match” Error

If you’re seeing this error, follow these steps to resolve it:

Double-Check Your Information

Before trying again, make sure:
You selected the correct tax year (2024 for the latest returns).
Your SSN is entered correctly.
You used the exact refund amount from Line 35a of your 1040.

Wait for the IRS to Process Your Return

• If you e-filed, wait at least 24-48 hours after receiving an acceptance confirmation.
• If you paper-filed, wait 4-6 weeks before checking Where’s My Refund.

Try Again Using a Different Device or Browser

If the issue persists, try:
 Clearing your browser cache/cookies
 Switching to a different browser (Chrome, Edge, Safari, etc.)
 Using a desktop computer instead of a phone
 Checking the IRS2Go app instead of the website

Contact the IRS for Assistance

If more than 21 days have passed since your e-file was accepted (or 6 weeks for paper filers) and you’re still getting this error:
 Call the IRS Refund Hotline: 1-800-829-1954
 Visit the IRS website: www.irs.gov/refunds

The “Information Does Not Match” error on Where’s My Refund? can be frustrating, but it’s often a simple issue with incorrect details or processing delays. However, if the issue persists for weeks, it could mean your refund is on hold due to identity verification.

 Have you encountered this issue? Let us know in the comments how you fixed it!