Filed 1/26 - 'Still Being Processed' but IRS Portal Says 'No Taxes Filed' - Identity Verification Required?

What you're experiencing is an IRS Identity Verification hold (IDV hold). The IRS implemented enhanced security protocols for TY2023/2024 returns due to increased fraud attempts. When the system flags a return, it creates a discrepancy between the e-file acceptance (which only confirms transmission) and the master file processing status (why you see "no taxes filed"). The letter you're waiting for is likely a CP01H or 5071C notice. You'll need to either call the dedicated Identity Verification hotline (1-800-830-5084) or use the ID.me verification system through the IRS portal, depending on which verification method they're requiring for your specific case. Pro tip: Take screenshots of the notification in your IRS account as evidence of the hold. This can be useful if you need to escalate later.

Has anyone successfully verified their identity online instead of waiting for the letter? I've been searching through r/IRS and TaxTwitter but found conflicting information. Some people say you can proactively verify through ID.me even without the letter, but others say the system won't let you complete verification until your specific case is flagged in their system? I'm in the same situation (filed 2/1) and really don't want to wait weeks for a letter that might get lost...

I had this EXACT same issue on February 9th! After waiting 2 weeks for the letter and getting nothing, I decided to try calling the IRS directly. Spent THREE DAYS trying to get through - kept getting the "due to high call volume" message. Finally used Claimyr (https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c) and got connected to an agent in about 15 minutes. The agent was able to verify my identity right then and there - turns out they had already sent the letter on February 12th but it never arrived. My refund was processed exactly 9 days after the call and hit my account on March 2nd. If you're still waiting by March 10th, I'd definitely recommend trying to get through to them directly.

Just wanted to share a quick success story! Was in the same boat (filed Jan 30th, stuck in processing). Called the Identity Verification number directly (800-830-5084) on Feb 28th, waited 45 mins, verified my identity w/o the letter, and my refund was approved 4 days later! DD hit my acct this AM. Don't wait for the letter if u don't have to - they can usually verify u over the phone if u have all ur docs ready (last year's AGI, this year's return info, SSN, DOB, filing status, etc). Good luck!

Is anyone else SHOCKED by how complicated this whole process is?! I mean, I uploaded every possible document when I filed - W2s, 1099s, mortgage interest statements, charity receipts, EVERYTHING. I even took pictures of my driver's license and social security card just to be safe. And they STILL need to verify my identity?? How is this still happening in 2024? The IRS knows more about me than I know about myself at this point! 😤

I went through this last year. The verification is actually a good thing - it means the IRS is catching the increasing number of fraudulent returns. My sister had someone file a fake return using her info in 2022, and it was a nightmare that took 11 months to resolve. The extra verification step is annoying, but it's way better than dealing with tax identity theft. When I got the letter, I called the special verification number, answered a few questions about past returns and loans, and my refund was processed about 10 days later.

For those tracking specific timeframes: I analyzed 37 recent identity verification cases from various forums. The average wait time for the verification letter was 17.3 days from the date of the notification appearing in the IRS portal. After successful verification, refunds were processed in an average of 12.6 days (median 9 days). Approximately 22% of people never received their letter and had to call after the 21-day period. The verification process itself typically takes between 15-25 minutes on the phone, with an average hold time of 37 minutes when calling the dedicated verification line.

You know what's funny (but not really)? The IRS will make you jump through hoops to prove you're you, but then they'll send a letter with your sensitive information through regular mail that could get stolen from your mailbox. 🙄 If you're tired of waiting, try calling the Taxpayer Advocate Service instead of the main IRS line. They sometimes have shorter wait times and can check the status of your letter or even help with the verification in some cases. Their number is 877-777-4778. Just be prepared to explain that you've been waiting beyond the normal timeframe for your verification letter.