If online identity verification with the IRS through ID.me is unsuccessful, other options are available. These include calling the phone number on the IRS notice, scheduling an in-person appointment at a Taxpayer Assistance Center, or using a video chat with a live agent via ID.me.
The return will be rejected and investigated as identity theft/tax fraud if: verification fails to confirm your identity or that you filed the return. if the verification process is not completed, or can't be completed.
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.
Then, the taxpayer should call the IRS using the toll-free Identity Verification telephone number: (800) 830-5084.
To fix failed identity verification, ensure your details (name, DOB, address) exactly match your ID, use good lighting and no glare for photos, update your browser/app, disable VPNs/extensions, clear cache, use a different device, and check for typos or abbreviations in your entered info. If issues persist, contact the service's support or consider in-person verification if available.
(updated Oct. 31, 2023) A: To verify your identity with ID.me, you'll need to provide a photo of an identity document such as a driver's license, state ID or passport. You'll also need to take a selfie or choose to video chat with a live ID.me agent.
To speak to a live person at the IRS, call the main line (800-829-1040), choose your language, then follow the prompts by selecting options for "Personal Income Tax," and when asked for your SSN/EIN, do not enter it, instead saying "representative" or repeating options until transferred to an agent, preferably calling early mornings on weekdays. Be patient and have specific questions ready, as the automated system tries to handle calls first.
The IRS issues several types of identity verification letters. Letter 4883C often involves a phone call or an in-person visit to confirm details. Letter 5071C, on the other hand, sometimes allows online verification through the IRS website if you meet certain requirements.
How to Verify Your Identity
What is a 5071C letter? The IRS sends a 5071C letter when it receives a tax return with your name and tax identification number, but believes the return to be fraudulent. A Letter 5071C will ask you to complete an online identity verification process to confirm your identity.
Go to the ID.me Support Contact page. Select Contact Support. Sign in to your account. Choose the drop-down that best describes your issue, and in the “Description” field, include as much detail as possible.
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.
Request an expedited refund by calling the IRS at 800-829-1040 (TTY/TDD 800-829-4059). Request a manual refund expedited to you.
The IRS is understaffed and unprepared to take on the daily volume of phone calls they receive. Unfortunately, this has caused callers to struggle with navigating the menu maze and being put on hold for hours only to have the line drop.
Accessing IRS tools
How to reach an actual person at the IRS: Use the 1-2-3 hack. The IRS telephone number is 1-800-829-1040, and is available from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday. To speak with someone at the IRS, you have to call, navigate through a menu, and eventually get routed to find an agent if one is available.
When you call the IRS, they will ask you to verify your identity. IRS phone assistors take great care to only discuss personal information with you or someone you authorize to speak on your behalf.
At Self, your security is our priority, so you'll need to be able to verify your identity by correctly answering multiple-choice questions based on your credit history that only you would know.
To fix failed identity verification, ensure your details (name, DOB, address) exactly match your ID, use good lighting and no glare for photos, update your browser/app, disable VPNs/extensions, clear cache, use a different device, and check for typos or abbreviations in your entered info. If issues persist, contact the service's support or consider in-person verification if available.
Verify that your Social Security number, date of birth, and name are as they appear on your Social Security card. If the information is correct, and you're still having issues, contact SSA at 1-800-772-1213.