CP5071 Notice: How to verify identity with IRS? Delaying tax refund!

Ugh, I went through this last year. It's a pain but not impossible. You'll need: • Your prior year's tax return • Current year's tax return (if you've filed) • Any IRS letters you've received Make sure you have all these ready before you call. It'll save you a lot of headache.

I found a way to actually get someone on the phone. I used this site's (claimyr.com) calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to my phone. It does cost $20, but it works. Here's a video about it: https://youtu.be/Dx2idC_6ku8

pro tip: call right when they open in the morning. youll have a much better chance of getting through quickly

Am I the only one who thinks its ridiculous that we have to jump through all these hoops just to get our own money back? 🤔 The IRS needs to get their act together fr

Has anyone tried using the IRS Identity Verification Service online? I heard it's faster than calling.

Quick question - does anyone know if this affects state tax returns too? Or is it just federal?

LPT: While you're waiting for this to get sorted, start gathering docs for next year's taxes. Trust me, future you will thank you 😉

I went through this exact same thing last month! Here's what worked for me: I called the number on the CP5071 notice at 8am sharp when they opened. Had my Social Security card, driver's license, and last year's tax return ready. The agent walked me through some verification questions about my tax history and previous addresses. Took about 45 minutes total on the phone, but my refund was released within a week after that. Don't panic - it's just a security measure and you'll get through it! 💪

Just want to add my experience to help ease some anxiety! I got the CP5071 notice about 6 weeks ago and successfully verified through the online portal (ID.me) without having to call. The key was having a good scan of my driver's license and being patient with the selfie verification process - it took a few tries but eventually worked. If you can't get through online, definitely try the phone route others mentioned. Also, don't stress too much about remembering every detail perfectly - they understand people move around and might not recall exact dates. The IRS agents were actually pretty helpful and patient when I had to call for a different issue. Your refund isn't lost, it's just temporarily held while they make sure you're really you. Hang in there! 🤞