A Simple Guide to the IRS’s Updated ID Verification Requirements
Identity theft, refund fraud, and data breaches continue to rise nationwide — and many taxpayers are now receiving IRS identity verification letters more frequently than ever.
Whether you’re filing early, expecting a refund, or dealing with a tax notice, understanding the IRS identity verification process can help prevent delays and keep your information secure.
This guide breaks down the IRS’s updated verification requirements for the 2025 tax year (filed in 2026) in clear, community-friendly language.
Why Identity Verification Matters
The IRS uses identity verification to:
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Make sure the correct person is filing the return
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Protect you from someone trying to file in your name
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Prevent fraudulent refunds
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Confirm changes to your personal information
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Keep tax records secure
If the IRS needs additional proof of identity, they will send you a letter by mail. You will never receive this request by email, text message, or social media.
Common IRS Identity Verification Letters
You may receive one of the following:
✔ 5071C Letter
The IRS wants you to confirm your identity because something on your return triggered a security check.
✔ 5747C Letter
Typically used when you must verify your identity in person at an IRS-authorized location.
✔ 4883C Letter
Used when the IRS suspects possible identity theft or suspicious activity.
✔ CP01A or CP01B
Sent to taxpayers who have been victims of identity theft in the past.
✔ Additional ID.me Verification Notices
Some taxpayers may be asked to verify through ID.me for additional protection.
These letters do not mean you did anything wrong. They are simply part of the IRS’s fraud-prevention process.
How IRS Identity Verification Works in 2026
The IRS uses a combination of IRS.gov Secure Access, ID.me, and in-person verification options.
Here’s what to expect:
1. Online Verification Through ID.me
ID.me continues to be the primary identity verification method for many taxpayers.
You will need:
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A government-issued ID
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A selfie for facial recognition
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Basic personal information
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Access to your email and phone
Most taxpayers complete verification in about 5–10 minutes.
2. IRS Secure Access
This method verifies your identity using:
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Financial account information
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Credit bureau records
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Phone number validation
Some taxpayers may be directed to this method instead of ID.me depending on their letter.
3. In-Person Verification
If online verification fails or the IRS specifically requests it, you may need to verify in person at:
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A Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC)
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An IRS partner location
You must schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are not accepted.
Why More Taxpayers Are Receiving These Letters
Many community members experience:
✔ Address changes
Frequent moves can lead to IRS mismatches.
✔ Natural disaster relocations
Temporary address changes often cause verification flags.
✔ High volume of self-employed workers
Schedule C returns trigger more security checks.
✔ Data breaches from employers or third-party platforms
The IRS increases verification for at-risk taxpayers.
✔ Early filing
Early filers may be flagged because W-2s and 1099s may not be fully processed yet.
What To Do If You Receive an Identity Verification Letter
✔ Step 1 — Do NOT ignore it
Identity verification letters are time-sensitive.
✔ Step 2 — Only use the official IRS website
Go to IRS.gov and type in the tool name listed on your letter (such as “5071C verify”).
Never click a link in an email or message.
✔ Step 3 — Gather your documents
You may need:
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Last year’s tax return
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Current-year tax return
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Government-issued ID
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W-2s and 1099s
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Social Security card
✔ Step 4 — Complete verification as soon as possible
Delays can hold up your refund.
✔ Step 5 — Contact your tax professional if you’re unsure
I can help you interpret your letter and make sure you respond correctly.
How This Affects Your Refund
Until verification is complete:
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Your return will not finish processing
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Your refund will not be released
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Future notices may be delayed
Once verified, the IRS will resume processing — usually within 2–3 weeks.
How My Business Alternatives Supports You
At MBA, I support our community by helping taxpayers:
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Read and interpret IRS ID verification letters
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Complete ID.me steps correctly
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Understand when in-person verification is required
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Prepare the right documents
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Protect their identity and personal information
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Respond to IRS letters without stress
👉 Join the MBA Family
https://taxportal.mybusinessalternatives.com/
👉 Schedule a Tax Questions Consultation
https://mybusinessalternatives.com/contact
Related Posts to Help You Prepare for 2026
-
Tax Season Countdown 2026
https://mybusinessalternatives.com/tax-pulse/tax-season-countdown-2026 -
1099-NEC Error Letters Explained
https://mybusinessalternatives.com/tax-pulse/irs-1099-nec-error-letters-what-our-community-should-know-before-amending-taxes -
Standard Deduction Updates
https://mybusinessalternatives.com/tax-pulse/recent-updates-to-the-standard-deduction-what-taxpayers-should-know -
Trump Accounts: New IRS Guidance Explained
https://mybusinessalternatives.com/tax-pulse/treasury-irs-release-new-guidance-on-trump-accounts-what-families-need-to-know
Final Thoughts From My Business Alternatives
My goal is to help our community understand what is, why it matters, and how to respond confidently when identity verification is required. IRS security checks may become more common, but with clear steps and the right support, the process can be simple and secure.
I’ll continue sharing updates as the IRS releases new information for the 2026 filing season.
