Need to verify your identity with the IRS but can’t access the online ID.me portal? This guide provides steps to verify your identity online and offers alternative solutions, including the ID.me customer service phone number for 24-hour assistance.
Understanding IRS Identity Verification
The IRS uses identity verification to protect taxpayers from identity theft and ensure refunds are sent to the rightful recipients. You might need to verify your identity if the IRS suspects a fraudulent tax return has been filed in your name. Typically, the IRS will send you a notice (5071C, 5747C, or 5447C) or letter requesting verification. These notices will provide specific instructions and may include a website address for online verification.
Verifying Your Identity Online with ID.me
If you received a notice with instructions to verify online, you can typically follow these steps:
1. Gather Necessary Documents
- Your IRS notice or letter (5071C, 5747C, or 5447C)
- Your Form 1040-series tax return for the year indicated on the notice (if you filed one)
- Photo identification
2. Access the ID.me Portal
Click the link provided in your IRS notice or letter. This will usually direct you to the ID.me identity verification portal.
3. Sign In or Create an Account
- If you have an existing IRS account, sign in with your credentials.
- If you’re a new user, you’ll need to create an ID.me account. Have your photo identification ready for the verification process.
4. Follow the Prompts
The ID.me portal will guide you through the verification process. You will likely need to answer questions about your tax return and provide personal information to confirm your identity.
ID.me Customer Service: 24/7 Phone Support
If you encounter issues verifying your identity online or lack the necessary documentation, you can contact ID.me customer service for assistance. While a dedicated 24-hour ID.me customer service phone number isn’t publicly advertised for IRS verification issues, the IRS notice or letter you received should provide a toll-free number to call for help.
Alternative Verification Methods: Contacting the IRS Directly
The phone number provided on your IRS notice is crucial. Calling this number allows you to:
- Explain your situation to an IRS representative.
- Verify your identity over the phone.
- Schedule an in-person appointment at a local IRS office if phone verification isn’t possible.
When calling the IRS, have the following ready:
- Your IRS notice or letter (5071C, 5747C, or 5447C)
- Your Form 1040-series tax return for the specified year (if applicable)
- Prior year tax returns (if available)
- Supporting documents like W-2s, 1099s, Schedule C, Schedule F, etc. Note: A W-2 or 1099 is not a tax return.
What if You Didn’t File a Tax Return?
If you received an IRS notice but didn’t file a tax return, you still need to verify your identity. This helps prevent fraudulent returns from being filed in your name. Follow the instructions in your notice or contact the IRS using the provided phone number. Using the online service or calling the IRS, you can confirm you did not file a return. This crucial step safeguards your identity and prevents potential tax fraud.
Conclusion
Verifying your identity with the IRS is essential to protect yourself from identity theft. While online verification through ID.me is often the first step, utilizing the phone number provided on your IRS notice grants access to 24/7 support. By following the steps outlined in this guide and having the necessary documents ready, you can efficiently navigate the verification process and ensure your tax information remains secure.
