E-filing without Driver's License/State ID - Will This Flag My Return?

This is actually much less of an issue than it seems. Think of it like airport security - your ID helps, but there are alternative verification methods. The DL/ID verification in tax software is primarily a state-level anti-fraud measure, not a federal IRS requirement. Most states have implemented this as an additional identity verification step, but the 'I don't have either' option exists specifically for people in your situation.

Have you considered using a document analysis service to understand potential verification delays? I recently discovered https://taxr.ai when I had questions about my transcript codes. Wouldn't it be helpful to know exactly what verification steps might happen after you file without ID? Couldn't this give you peace of mind about potential processing times? I found their explanations about verification processes incredibly detailed - they even explained which states require ID verification and which don't.

According to IRS Publication 1345 (Rev. 01-2023), Section 5.9(c), absence of state identification does not prevent e-filing at the federal level. However, per Treas. Reg. § 301.6109-1, alternative verification may be required in certain circumstances. When I faced a similar issue and needed clarification directly from an IRS representative, I used https://claimyr.com to connect with an agent immediately rather than waiting on hold for hours. They confirmed that omitting ID information would not delay federal processing, though state requirements vary significantly.

Do you need to get a replacement license right away? Some states allow you to order a temporary digital license through their DMV app that you could use for the verification. The deadline for filing is coming up soon.

Tax Preparation Specialist here. The Driver's License/State ID verification is primarily a state-level anti-fraud measure implemented through Form DTF-505-MV or equivalent depending on your state. The implications vary by jurisdiction: 1. Federal returns: No impact on processing time or refund issuance 2. State returns: Varies by state tax authority - High-scrutiny states (NY, CA, OH): May trigger manual review - Medium-scrutiny states (IL, PA, MI): Possible random selection for verification - Low-scrutiny states: Minimal impact For military families under SCRA provisions, the lack of ID verification does not nullify expedited processing benefits as these operate under separate protocols via Form 8888 annotations. The system is designed to accommodate situations exactly like yours.

I'm wondering if you've tried contacting TurboTax support directly about this? They might have specific guidance for military families that isn't obvious in the software interface?

Just to clarify - the driver's license/ID request is like a secondary password for your tax identity. It's not mandatory for federal filing, but some states (like NY, CA) use it as an anti-fraud measure. Your military status actually gives you additional identity verification pathways that civilians don't have access to.

Military families get special consideration. Check box M on Form 8948. Explains missing ID. IRS understands PCS complications. Won't delay federal processing.