The IRS Identity and Tax Return Verification Service can help you prove that you are who you say you are.
The IRS wants you to verify your identity to make you eligible for a tax return. To verify your identity, you can go online or go to your local IRS office. In either case, you should have a power of attorney to represent you during the phone call. Suppose you’re unable to prove your identity online; the IRS may require you to make an appointment for in-person verification.
The IRS Identity and Tax Return Verification Service is available 24 hours a day. To use the service, you need to register on the IRS website. To register, you’ll need a copy of your 5071C or 6331C letter and your tax return for the tax year listed on the letter. If you haven’t filed your tax return yet, you should indicate so in the registration form.
What is Identity and Tax Return Verification Service?
In some instances, you are required to verify your identity for the tax return’s eligibility. The IRS Identity and Tax Return Verification Service is the IRS service responsible for verifying taxpayers’ identities.
If you get a letter asking you to prove who you are, you should answer it as soon as possible. Even if it’s too late, verifying yourself with a letter is better than no response. Once you’ve verified your identity, the IRS can process your tax return.
Who Must Use Identity and Tax Return Verification Service?
You received one of the following letters from the IRS website:
- You must use the Identity and Tax Return Verification Service to verify your identity online.
- 5071C letter or 6331C letter
- 5747C letter
- 5447C letter
- You are personally directed by an IRS representative to use the service.
- If you received a 4883C or a 6330C letter, you need to follow the instructions on the letter.
Important: If the letter you received didn’t include this website, or you haven’t yet received a letter, you can’t use this online service.
What You Need to Verify Your ID
IRS offices are located all over the country. They are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. If you are not comfortable talking over the phone with an agent, in that case, you can go to your local Taxpayer Assistance Center. You can also speak to a taxpayer advocate.
Taxpayers can contact the IRS through the mail or online. All you need to do is provide your Social Security number, ITIN or EIN, filing status, and any loan account numbers or mobile phone numbers associated with your name. Once you have verified your identity, the IRS can continue processing your return, which can take up to nine weeks.
When you’re not in a rush, you can register online. You’ll need your 5071C letter and a copy of your tax return to verify your identity.
