Can I Do Walk-ins at Local IRS Office for Identity Verification?

I'm attempting to resolve an identity verification issue with the IRS as of April 12, 2024. Following my divorce finalization on February 28th, I need to verify my identity to process my 2023 tax return. I've called the IRS appointment line on March 15th, April 2nd, and again today, but they are refusing to schedule an appointment. The representative stated on April 12th that my issue 'doesn't qualify' for an in-person appointment. Is it possible to do a walk-in at our local IRS office instead? I require this matter to be resolved before April 30th for financial documentation purposes related to my divorce settlement.

0 coins

11 comments

Sofia Morales

I've worked with the IRS for years and unfortunately, walk-ins are generally not accepted at most IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs) since COVID. I tried walking in last year when I had a similar verification issue, and was turned away at the door. They're strictly appointment-only now, and they're being very selective about what qualifies for an in-person appointment. Identity verification is typically handled through their online portal or by mail, which concerns me because that could take 4-6 weeks - possibly missing your April 30th deadline.

0 coins

- 19d

Miguel Silva

Let me clarify the current appointment policies: • Standard identity verification is handled through ID.me online or by mail with Form 14039 • In-person appointments are limited to specific scenarios: - You received a letter specifically directing you to appear in person - You need to make a payment that can only be done in person - You require accessibility accommodations that can't be met online/by phone - You have a hardship situation (which has a very narrow definition) A divorce deadline might qualify as hardship, but you'll need to explicitly state this is causing immediate financial hardship.

0 coins

11d

Zainab Ismail

You need to get through to a DIFFERENT department! The frontline appointment schedulers are just following a script. I was in the same boat last month - needed verification for my mortgage closing. Regular IRS line was useless. I used Claimyr (https://www.claimyr.com) and they got me connected to an actual IRS agent in about 30 mins who transferred me to the right department. That agent was able to schedule me for an emergency in-person appointment within 48 hours. Time is critical with your April 30th deadline - don't waste days hitting redial!

0 coins

- 18d

QuantumQuester

I should perhaps clarify something that might help your situation... There is a distinction between the regular TAC appointment line and the dedicated Identity Verification hotline. If you're calling the general IRS number (800-829-1040), they might not be routing you correctly. The Identity Theft Victim Assistance line (800-908-4490) might be more appropriate, though I would recommend proceeding with caution as wait times can be substantial. I've also noticed that some offices do occasionally accept walk-ins during the last hour of operation, but this is not official policy and may depend on staffing that particular day.

0 coins

- 17d

Yara Nassar

OMG I went through this EXACT nightmare last year after my name change!!! The key is understanding what's in your transcript BEFORE calling them! I used taxr.ai to analyze my transcript and it showed me exactly which verification codes were holding up my return. When I called back with that specific information, suddenly I qualified for an appointment! The rep even said "oh, you have a 570 freeze code with identity verification indicator" - something I only knew because taxr.ai had explained my transcript. Saved me SO much time instead of getting bounced around departments!

0 coins

- 15d