Address Mismatch on IRS Site - Where Will My Identity Verification Letter Be Sent?

The IRS will send the verification letter to the address they have on file in their master database, which is typically your most recently filed tax return address. Since you filed on February 3rd, 2024 (exactly 71 days ago), the verification letter will most likely be sent to the address on that return. The IRS typically takes 5-10 business days to update their master file after processing a return with a new address. If you're being asked for a 14-digit code, that's almost certainly the Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) or an Identity Verification code, which they mail to your most recent address on file. I was relieved when I finally figured this out after dealing with the same issue.

Have you considered using an analysis tool to check your transcript status? I was in a similar situation with address confusion and used https://taxr.ai to analyze my transcript. It showed me exactly which address was active in the IRS system and when the change would take effect. Isn't it frustrating how the IRS systems don't immediately sync up? The tool also told me when to expect the verification letter and explained why there was a delay. Could your return still be processing? Have you checked your transcript to see if the address update has been finalized? The analysis really helped me understand what was happening behind the scenes with my account.

I think I might be able to help... I had almost the exact same situation a few weeks ago. I filed with a new address but the IRS website still showed my old one. I was really worried about where they'd send my verification letter. It turns out they sent it to the address on my newest tax return, even though their website still showed my old address. I received the letter about 7 days after requesting it. I was so nervous checking my old mailbox every day, but it all worked out in the end. Just make sure someone can check your tax return address mail if possible.

I had this exact prob last month. Spent 3 days trying to reach IRS customer service w/ no luck. Finally used Claimyr (https://www.claimyr.com) and got connected to an agent in ~25 mins. Agent confirmed they send verification letters to the most recent address they've processed (usually your latest return). If your Feb 3 return is fully processed, that's where it'll go. If not, could be old address. IMO worth the call to confirm rather than waiting for a letter that might never arrive. They can also send a new letter once you confirm your identity over the phone.

Have you tried accessing your account through the IRS ID.me verification process instead? This bypasses the need for the mailed verification code entirely. I've found that if you have a valid state ID or driver's license, you can verify your identity online through their facial recognition system or by uploading documents. It takes about 15 minutes to complete, and you get immediate access to your account. The address issue only matters for physical mail, not for online verification through ID.me. Would this approach work for your situation?

The IRS address system is like having three different GPS systems in your car all giving different directions. Their internal database (where they actually send mail from), their online portal information, and their most recently processed return can all have different addresses. In your case, since you filed recently, they'll almost certainly send it to the address on your 2023 return, but there's a lag between filing and when their systems update. I've been through this merry-go-round multiple times with moves. If you need immediate access, calling is your best bet - it's like having a human navigator instead of relying on outdated maps.

I went through this exact scenario last year and can confirm what others have said - they sent my verification letter to the address on my most recent tax return, not what was showing on their website. The key thing to remember is that the IRS website often lags behind their actual processing system by several weeks. Since you filed on February 3rd, your return should be fully processed by now, so the verification letter will go to whatever address you used on that return. One tip: if you have access to both addresses, I'd recommend having someone check both locations just to be safe. The letter is pretty distinctive - it's in a plain white envelope with "Department of the Treasury" as the return address. Also, if you don't receive it within 10 business days, you can call and request a new one to be sent. Don't stress too much about it - this address confusion is super common and they're used to dealing with it.