Verifying Your Identity with the IRS

Received an IRS Letter 5071C and wondering what it means? Don’t stress! This notice is the IRS’s way of keeping your tax return safe from identity theft. Scammers are out there, but the IRS is on guard, and we’ve got your back with a simple, step-by-step guide to handle this notice and protect your refund. Let’s dive in and make this process a breeze!

What Is IRS Letter 5071C?

The IRS sends Letter 5071C when they spot a tax return with your name and Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) that might be fraudulent. It’s part of their Taxpayer Protection Program to stop identity thieves from stealing your refund. Here’s what it could mean:

• If You Filed a Return: The IRS needs more info to confirm it’s really you and process your return or refund.
• If You Didn’t File: Someone may have used your SSN/ITIN to file a fraudulent return. Acting fast is critical to stop further fraud!

Key Point: This letter doesn’t mean you’re in trouble—it’s the IRS protecting you from identity theft.

Why Did I Get Letter 5071C?

With recent tax law changes and stimulus payments, scammers have been working overtime. The IRS uses advanced tools to catch suspicious returns, and your return may have raised a red flag. Common reasons include:

• Mismatched info (e.g., SSN doesn’t match IRS records).
• Suspicious filing patterns that look like fraud.
• A fraudulent return filed in your name without your knowledge.

What to Do Right Away

You must verify your identity to keep your tax return moving or stop a fraudster. Here’s how to do it:

Option 1: Verify Online (Fastest!)

• Visit the IRS Identity Verification Service (available 24/7).
• Register First: Create an account on the IRS website.
• What You Need:
  • Your Letter 5071C, 5747C, 5447C, or 6331C.
  • The tax return (Form 1040, 1040-SR, etc.) for the year listed in the letter. Note: W-2s or 1099s are not tax returns.
  • Supporting documents (e.g., W-2, 1099, Schedule C).
  • A credit card, mortgage, student loan, home equity loan, or car loan statement.
  • A mobile phone linked to your name.
  • Your mailing address from your previous year’s return.
• Didn’t File? You can indicate that on the website to report possible identity theft.

Option 2: Call the IRS

• Dial the toll-free number listed in your Letter 5071C or 6331C.
• Pro Tip: Call early in the morning or 30 minutes before closing to avoid long wait times due to high call volumes.
• Have the same documents listed above ready.
• If the IRS can’t verify you over the phone, they may ask you to visit a local IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center.

Important: The IRS verification number is only for identity verification—no refund status or other tax info is available.

Option 3: In-Person Verification

If online or phone verification doesn’t work, schedule an appointment at a local IRS office. Bring all the documents listed above.

Deadline Note: The letter requests a response within 30 days, but the IRS will work with you even if more time has passed. Still, act as soon as possible to avoid delays!

What Happens After I Verify?

• Successful Verification: The IRS processes your return. Expect your refund or overpayment credit within 9 weeks, unless other issues arise (they’ll contact you if so).
• If You Don’t Verify: Your return won’t be processed, and your refund or overpayment credit will be delayed.
• Can’t Verify Online/Phone?: The IRS will ask you to visit a local office with your documents.

Why Acting Fast Matters

• Protect Your Refund: Verifying quickly ensures your refund isn’t delayed or stolen.
• Stop Fraud: If someone filed a fraudulent return, reporting it immediately helps the IRS block further scams.
• Avoid Complications: Delays in verification could lead to longer refund wait times or additional IRS requests.

Tips to Make This Easy

• Gather Documents: Have your letter, tax return, and supporting documents ready before verifying.
• Use Online First: It’s the fastest and most secure option.
• Check for Identity Theft: If you didn’t file, report it on the IRS Identity Verification Service to protect your identity.
• Need Help?: A tax professional can guide you through the process.
• Monitor Your Refund: After verification, track your refund with Where’s My Refund? on IRS.gov.

Don’t let Letter 5071C stress you out! It’s the IRS’s way of keeping your money safe. Verify your identity today, and you’ll be back on track to getting your refund or stopping fraud in no time!