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IRS Identity and Tax Return Verification Service

2024-04-16

https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/identity-and-tax-return-verification-service

The IRS proactively identifies and stops the processing of potential identity theft returns. You may receive a notice or letter asking you to verify your identity and tax return information with the IRS. This helps prevent an identity thief from getting your refund.

Only taxpayers who have received a notice or a letter that included this website address will be able to use it.

What to do if you did file a tax return

  1. You will need the following to answer IRS questions about the tax return:
    1. The Form 1040-series tax return for the year shown on the notice or letter.
    2. The notice or letter you received.
  2. You can use your IRS account to sign-in. If you’re a new user, have your photo identification ready. More information about identity verification is available on the sign-in page.
  3. Click on the “Sign in to Verify your identity and tax return” button to continue.
  4. You must let us know that you did file a tax return and answer IRS questions about the tax return. If you don’t see these questions, come back to this page and sign in again.

What to do if you didn’t file a tax return

  1. You can use your IRS account to sign-in. If you’re a new user, have your photo identification ready. More information about identity verification is available on the sign-in page.
  2. Click on the “Sign in to Verify your identity and tax return” button to continue.
  3. You must let us know that you didn’t file a tax return. If you don’t see this option, come back to this page and sign in again.

Accessibility notes for identity verification online

There are compatibility issues with some assistive technologies. Refer to the Identity Verification Service Accessibility Guide for help if you use a screen reader, screen magnifier or voice command software.

Other ways to resolve your account

If you can’t verify your identity online or don’t have the required documentation, contact the IRS using the toll-free number listed on your notice or letter.

To expedite the process when calling, you must have:

  • Your 5071C notice, 5747C letter, or 5447C letter.
  • The Form 1040-series tax return for the year shown on the notice or letter, if you filed one
    • Note: A Form W-2 or 1099 is not tax return
  • Any other prior year tax return, if you have one available
  • Any supporting W-2s, 1099s, Schedule C, Schedule F, etc.

If the IRS can’t resolve your account over the phone, they may ask you to schedule an in-person appointment at your local IRS office.