Responding to Identity Verification Letters Without Panic

Why this matters

Receiving an identity verification letter can feel alarming, but the IRS sends these notices to protect taxpayers and the tax system from fraud. Acting calmly and deliberately is the fastest way to resolve the issue and reduce the risk of delays to your refund or tax account actions.

Quick checklist (what to do first)

• Read the letter carefully and note the deadline and contact method specified. Don’t rely on the sender’s return address alone—follow the instructions in the notice.
• Confirm the notice type and reason for the request (for example, identity verification after e‑filed returns or suspicious account activity).
• Gather the documentation requested (see the Documentation section below).
• Respond using the method the IRS provides: secure online verification, a phone number, or a mail address.

(For more on responding to specific notices, see our guide: How to Respond to an IRS Identity Verification Letter (Letter 5071C).)

Common types of identity verification notices

The IRS uses several notices and letters when it needs to confirm identity or to protect a taxpayer’s account. Examples include letters and notices generated when the IRS detects a potentially fraudulent return or unusual activity tied to your Social Security number. The most commonly discussed letter for identity verification of electronic returns is Letter 5071C; other notices may reference CP or IP series codes depending on the case and system that generated the alert (IRS guidance: https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/identity-theft-victims-information).

How the verification process works

1. Trigger: A return, an online account login, a change to your IRS account, or a data match (e.g., mismatched income info) can trigger a verification request.
2. Notice: The IRS mails a letter or notice asking you to prove your identity. It will explain how to verify (phone, secure online link, or mail).
3. Response: You verify identity using the specified method and supply documents if requested.
4. Clearance: Once the IRS confirms your identity, they remove the hold and process pending action (refunds, account changes).

The IRS recommends using the exact contact method in the notice; some letters include a secure online verification option or require calling a specific telephone number for identity verification (IRS: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/identity-verification-letters).

Documentation you may need

• Social Security card or SSA verification documentation
• Driver’s license, state ID, or passport
• Recent tax return copy (prior year Form 1040)
• W‑2, 1099, or other income statements used on the return being verified
• Any IRS letter numbers or identity verification codes printed on the notice

Keep certified copies if the IRS requests originals by mail. If you’re unsure which documents are acceptable, call the IRS number on the notice or consult a tax professional.

Step‑by‑step response plan

1. Pause and confirm the letter is genuine: match the letter number, return address, and instructions with the IRS website resources and the notice text. The IRS will not initiate identity verification by email with links asking for personal data—letters are mailed. (IRS identity theft resources: https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/identity-theft-victims-information)
2. Use the secure online tool when offered: some letters include a unique code to verify identity at IRS secure services. This is usually the fastest option.
3. If the notice requires phone verification, call the number on the letter during business hours and have your documentation ready.
4. If mail is required, send copies (not originals) via traceable mail and keep proof of delivery. Keep copies of everything you send.
5. Follow up if you don’t receive confirmation within the timeframe the letter specifies.

In my practice helping clients with identity verification letters, the single most common delay is missing or incomplete documentation. Preparing a clear packet with matching names, addresses, and income documents shortens processing times.

When to get professional help

• You suspect your identity has been stolen and someone filed a return in your name.
• You can’t locate the information the IRS requests (for example, lost Social Security documentation).
• The case involves complex issues such as multiple refunds, fraudulent wage reports, or cross‑state filing discrepancies.
  A tax professional or an identity‑theft advocate can help prepare a response, contact the IRS on your behalf, and file an Identity Theft Affidavit (Form 14039) if necessary (IRS: https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/reporting-identity-theft).

Real‑world example (illustrative)

A client received an identity verification notice after filing electronically from a travel location. Their tax return used a temporary IP address the IRS systems flagged. We confirmed the letter number and used the secure online verification link included in the notice, uploaded a copy of the driver’s license and a prior year return, and the IRS cleared the hold in about three weeks. The key steps were: respond using the specified method, include clear matching documents, and keep records of the submission.

Mistakes that cause delays

• Ignoring the notice or missing the deadline
• Sending incomplete or mismatched documents (different names, old addresses)
• Calling or responding to numbers/links not printed on the official letter
• Using email to transmit highly sensitive documents when the IRS has given a secure alternative

Scams and how to spot them

Scammers often mimic IRS letters or call taxpayers demanding immediate payment or personal data. Red flags include: threatening language, urgent payment demands by prepaid debit, or requests for sensitive data via email. If you’re unsure, compare the letter to the IRS webpages on identity verification and identity theft victims (IRS: https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams). Confirm the phone number or return address is the one printed on the IRS site before sharing information.

(For related topics, read our articles on IRS Identity Verification: Best Practices to Prevent Delays and Handling Identity Theft-Related Tax Returns: Steps to Recover Your Refund.)

How long will it take?

Timelines vary. Simple verifications completed with the online tool are often resolved in days to a few weeks. Cases involving suspected identity theft, missing documentation, or mailed submissions can take longer. If the IRS determines your account is the target of identity theft, resolution may require additional steps such as issuing an Identity Protection PIN or filing Form 14039 (IRS guidance: https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/reporting-identity-theft).

Practical tips to reduce future risk

• Enroll in IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) if eligible to prevent fraudulent filings (IRS: identity protection PIN program).
• Monitor your credit reports and use fraud alerts or credit freezes if you suspect identity theft.
• Use secure Wi‑Fi and strong passwords when filing online.
• Keep year‑end tax documents and supporting records for at least three years.

FAQ (brief)

Q: What if I can’t verify my identity online? A: Call the number on the letter and ask for alternative verification steps. Q: Will responding hurt my credit? A: IRS identity verification is about tax account security and generally does not directly affect credit scores; however, identity theft cases can have wider credit consequences and should be addressed with the major credit bureaus if fraud is confirmed.

Sources and further reading

• IRS, Identity Theft Victims Information: https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/identity-theft-victims-information
• IRS, Identity Verification Letters: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/identity-verification-letters
• IRS, Reporting Identity Theft: https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/reporting-identity-theft

Disclaimer: This article is educational and does not constitute tax or legal advice. For guidance specific to your situation, consult a qualified tax professional or contact the IRS directly using contact information from the official IRS website.