If the IRS suspects that a tax return with your name on it is potentially the result of identity theft, the agency will send you a special letter, called a 5071C Letter. This letter is to notify you that the agency received a tax return with your name and Social Security number and it believes it may not be yours. The letter asks you to take specific steps to verify your identity and confirm whether or not the return is actually yours.
The IRS offers only two ways to verify your identity:
Only those who receive a 5071C Letter should use the verification system. The letters are sent to you via U.S. mail. They are never emailed, and the IRS does not initiate verification requests by phone.
The IRS prefers that taxpayers use the online system; because phone callers may experience delays due to the high volume of calls the IRS receives. The phone number on your letter can be used only for verification purposes, not for any other tax issues.
The ID Verify website or phone system asks questions that only you can answer correctly. What you will need:
If the verification proves you are the person named on the return and that you personally filed the return, the return will be processed. After successful verification, it takes about 6 weeks to complete processing.
The return will be rejected and investigated as identity theft/tax fraud if:
Respond to all requests from the IRS to validate your identity in order to avoid automatic rejection of what could be a valid tax return.
Use the thread below to discuss IRS 5071C Letters. Connect with others that have received a 5071C and keep us updated on what you find out!
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