To verify your identity with the IRS, you'll generally need a government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license, state ID, or passport) and personal info like your SSN, birth date, filing status, and details from a prior-year tax return or an IRS notice (CP5071/5447C) if prompted for return verification. For online tools via ID.me, you'll upload ID documents and take a selfie; for phone calls, have your info ready to provide to the agent.
Bring these items with you:
Documents that prove identity only
Self–Service: The fastest method to verify; usually takes 5-10 minutes. For step-by-step instructions, visit Verifying your identity with ID.me Self-Service. Video call: You will upload your document, then join a quick video call.
Call our Taxpayer Assistance Center toll-free at the number on your letter to schedule an in-person appointment. Note: An authorized third party can represent the taxpayer, however, the taxpayer must be present at the appointment to authenticate their identity. Visit IRS.gov/f2848 for more information.
How to Verify Your Identity
Three common and acceptable forms of ID in the U.S. are a driver's license, a U.S. passport, and a state-issued ID card, often required for travel (TSA) or official transactions, though specific needs (like banking or federal work) might require combining a primary photo ID with a secondary document like a Social Security card. The key is government-issued identification with your photo, name, and date of birth.
To support your identity, you'll generally need government-issued documents like a Passport, Driver's License, or State ID (primary photo ID), plus supporting documents for secondary verification, such as a Birth Certificate, Social Security Card, or utility bills, depending on the specific requirements of the entity requesting the ID.
To verify their identity with ID.me, taxpayers need to provide a photo of an identity document such as a driver's license, state ID or passport. They'll also need to take a selfie with a smartphone or a computer with a webcam. Once their identity has been verified, they can securely access IRS online services.
No, you generally cannot use your Social Security card as a standalone ID because it lacks a photo and physical description, but it is crucial for proving your Social Security Number (SSN) for employment, taxes, and government benefits, often used as a secondary document alongside a primary photo ID like a driver's license or passport for things like opening bank accounts or getting a REAL ID.
You generally must have documentary evidence, such as receipts, canceled checks, or bills, to support your expenses. Additional evidence is required for travel, entertainment, gifts, and auto expenses.
Below is the list of the only acceptable documents:
You can verify your identity online through the IRS Identity Verification Service website or by phone using the number provided in the 5071C Letter. To verify your identity, you'll need both your previous and current year's tax returns, along with all supporting forms and schedules.
Identity and Address Documents
Three common and acceptable forms of ID in the U.S. are a driver's license, a U.S. passport, and a state-issued ID card, often required for travel (TSA) or official transactions, though specific needs (like banking or federal work) might require combining a primary photo ID with a secondary document like a Social Security card. The key is government-issued identification with your photo, name, and date of birth.
What is considered valid Proof of Identity in India? Valid PoI documents include Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Voter ID, Driving Licence, Government ID cards, and photo passbooks from approved banks.
Primary Documents
The IRS asks you to verify your identity primarily to stop fraud, often because someone filed a tax return using your Social Security Number (SSN) without your permission, or due to data discrepancies, a new address, or a previous data breach involving your info. Verification ensures you are the legitimate taxpayer before they process your return, issue refunds, or grant access to your online account, protecting you from identity theft.
List of identity documents of India
Top 7 Types of Online Identity Verification Methods