Introduction
Receiving an IRS Letter 5071C can be unsettling, but it is a security measure the IRS uses when it detects unusual activity tied to your Social Security number. The letter asks you to confirm your identity so the IRS can proceed with processing a tax return. If you act promptly and follow secure steps, you can resolve the issue without unnecessary delay or risk of fraud.
Why the IRS sends Letter 5071C
The IRS sends Letter 5071C when automated systems flag a tax return or related activity as potentially fraudulent. Flags can be triggered by: a suspicious return filing pattern, mismatches in identity data, or a return that appears to be filed by someone other than the taxpayer. According to the IRS, this is part of its identity and tax return verification process (see IRS identity verification guidance: https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/identity-and-tax-return-verification).
What information Letter 5071C typically contains
Although exact wording can vary, Letter 5071C usually includes:
- Your full name and current mailing address to confirm the correct recipient.
- The notice number “5071C” (prominently shown near the top).
- A brief reason for the contact: that the IRS needs to verify your identity before processing a return.
- Clear instructions on how to respond: a secure IRS web address, a phone number to call, and sometimes instructions for visiting a local Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC).
- A deadline for responding. The letter will specify the date; missing it can delay processing of the return or refund.
- A unique reference or verification number you must provide when responding.
- Contact details and directions for next steps if you believe identity theft has occurred.
How to respond (step-by-step)
1) Read the letter carefully and note the deadline
The letter’s response deadline is important. It may ask you to respond within a number of days—note the date and act before then to avoid processing delays.
2) Use only the official IRS options listed on the letter
Do not use links or phone numbers from unsolicited emails or calls. Use only the phone number or web address shown on your mailed Letter 5071C. The IRS directs recipients to its identity and tax return verification page: https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/identity-and-tax-return-verification.
3) Verify online (fastest option when available)
Many recipients are directed to the IRS Identity Verification Service. You’ll be asked to provide the letter’s unique number plus personal information to verify your identity. Online verification is generally the quickest way to clear a flagged return, provided the IRS offers that option on your specific letter.
4) Call the IRS number on the letter
If you prefer, call the number printed on the letter. Expect to prove your identity by answering questions about your tax history and personal information. Keep a record of the date, time, and agent you spoke with.
5) Visit a Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) if instructed
Some situations require an in-person visit. If the letter directs you to a local TAC, bring original identification documents (see list below). Appointments are usually necessary—use the IRS site or the phone number on the letter to schedule one.
What documents to have ready
If you need to provide documentation, the IRS commonly accepts:
- Government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, passport).
- Social Security card or official SSA documents.
- A birth certificate (for certain cases).
- Copies of prior-year tax returns (Form 1040), W-2s or 1099s.
- Bank statements or paystubs to corroborate income and identity.
Always make clear, legible copies if uploading or mailing documents, and keep originals unless the IRS specifically requests them.
If you did not file a return or suspect identity theft
- Respond even if you didn’t file. Letter 5071C can mean someone tried to file a return using your Social Security number. Replying helps the IRS stop fraudulent processing.
- If you suspect identity theft, follow the IRS’s Identity Theft Victim steps. The IRS may ask you to complete Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit, or follow a different process outlined in the letter. See IRS guidance here: https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams.
- Place a fraud alert or credit freeze with the credit bureaus if you suspect broader identity theft. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has a clear guide on credit reports and freezes: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/credit-reports-and-scores/.
Joint filers and married couples
If you and your spouse filed jointly and receive Letter 5071C, the IRS may require identity verification from one or both spouses. Follow the instructions in the letter and coordinate responses to avoid duplicate actions. If you use a tax preparer, they can help, but you will likely still need to verify personal identity yourself unless a valid Power of Attorney (Form 2848) is already on file with the IRS.
Working with a tax pro or a Power of Attorney
A preparer who has power-of-attorney (POA) on file may assist, but the IRS often requires the taxpayer to complete specific verification steps personally. Tax professionals can help organize documents and speak with the IRS when properly authorized. For formal representation, file Form 2848 (Power of Attorney) with the IRS.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Ignoring the letter: This can delay refund processing and allow fraud to continue.
- Using contact methods from emails or callers claiming to be the IRS: Scammers often piggyback on legitimate IRS notices.
- Sending incomplete or illegible documents: Make clean copies and follow upload/mailing instructions.
- Missing the response deadline: Respond before the date shown on the letter.
- Failing to keep records: Keep copies of the letter, all documents you submit, and notes from any calls or visits.
What to expect after you respond
Processing times vary. Online responses are usually handled faster, but the IRS may still take several weeks to update its systems and process the affected return. If identity theft is confirmed, the IRS may place special handling on your account and issue you an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) to block fraudulent filings in the future. Learn more about the IP PIN program: https://finhelp.io/glossary/irs-identity-theft-protection-pin/.
If the IRS confirms identity theft
If the IRS determines you are a victim of identity theft, they will provide instructions to secure your tax records and prevent future fraud. Typical next steps may include: issuing an IP PIN, blocking fraudulent returns, and helping you correct your tax account. See FinHelp’s guide on how the IRS handles identity theft: https://finhelp.io/glossary/how-does-the-irs-handle-identity-theft/ and the IRS’s identity theft resources: https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams.
Monitoring and protecting your identity after a 5071C
- Order a free credit report from AnnualCreditReport.com or follow FinHelp’s guide: https://finhelp.io/glossary/how-to-get-a-free-credit-report/.
- Consider a credit freeze or lock to prevent new accounts (see differences at https://finhelp.io/glossary/credit-freeze-vs-credit-lock/).
- Place a fraud alert with the major credit bureaus and monitor your credit and bank accounts regularly (CFPB resource: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/credit-reports-and-scores/).
- Keep copies of any correspondence with the IRS and file dates or confirmation numbers from online verifications.
Related FinHelp resources
- The IRS’s role and initiatives in combating identity theft: https://finhelp.io/glossary/the-irss-role-and-initiatives-in-combating-identity-theft/
- Decoding an IRS notice step-by-step: https://finhelp.io/glossary/decoding-your-irs-notice-a-step-by-step-guide/
- How to track your tax refund: https://finhelp.io/glossary/how-to-track-your-tax-refund/
- Taxpayer Protection Program overview: https://finhelp.io/glossary/taxpayer-protection-program/
Frequently asked questions (brief)
Q: Is there a fee to verify my identity with the IRS?
A: No. The IRS will never charge a fee to verify your identity. If anyone asks for payment to resolve an IRS letter, treat it as a scam.
Q: How long will it take to get my refund after I verify?
A: It varies. Online verification typically speeds up processing, but the IRS may still take several weeks to clear the return and issue a refund.
Q: Can someone else verify on my behalf?
A: Only if they are an authorized representative with a valid power of attorney (Form 2848) on file. Otherwise, the IRS usually requires personal verification.
Final notes
IRS Letter 5071C is a security measure designed to protect taxpayers and the tax system from identity theft. Treat the letter seriously, use only the contact methods printed on the notice, and keep good records of your response. If identity theft is confirmed, take additional steps—credit freezes, fraud alerts, and close monitoring—to protect your broader financial life.
Sources and further reading
- IRS — Identity and Tax Return Verification: https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/identity-and-tax-return-verification
- IRS — Identity Theft and Fraud: https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau — Credit Reports and Scores: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/credit-reports-and-scores/
- FinHelp related glossary pages (linked above)
(If you received Letter 5071C and need step-by-step help, start by reading the letter carefully, then visit the IRS identity verification page or call the number on your notice.)