Filed Jan 24th - Transcript Still Blank & Told I Need ID Verification
I filed on January 24th and my return is still processing with a completely blank transcript. According to IRS Publication 1345 section 5.3, e-filed returns should be processed within 21 days unless additional review is needed. I called the IRS verification line (800-830-5084) as specified in the Internal Revenue Manual 21.5.6 and was informed that I need to complete identity verification, but my letter won't arrive until March 20th. The representative stated that, contrary to IRM 3.42.8, everyone will eventually need to ID verify. They also indicated my refund won't be processed until April, which seems to contradict the standard processing timeline in Rev. Proc. 2023-30. Has anyone else encountered this delay? I'm concerned about the accuracy of this information.
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Connor Murphy
That doesn't sound right at all? The IRS doesn't make everyone verify their identity. Have you checked your IRS online account to see if there's a verification notice there? Did they mention if you need to use ID.me or if you need to visit a TAC office? Was there any indication why you were selected for verification?
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KhalilStar
I had something similar happen last year. Did they tell you which specific verification method they're requiring? In my experience, there's a big difference between the online verification and having to mail documents.
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Amelia Dietrich
I went through this last year! The rep told me I'd get a letter in 3 weeks but I called back and got a different agent who gave me a verification link right over the phone. Saved me almost a month of waiting. Sometimes it depends entirely on who you talk to at the IRS.
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10d
Kaiya Rivera
This situation sounds much worse than what happened with my brother-in-law. He got flagged for verification but received his letter within a week. April processing for a January filing? That's a 3-month delay compared to the typical 2-3 week verification process. Did they provide any technical explanation for why yours is taking so much longer?
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Katherine Ziminski
Been there. Got the same call. It's legit. My transcript was blank too. Had to verify. Took exactly 9 weeks total. Got my money eventually. No explanation why. Just government being slow. Keep all your documents ready. They'll ask for weird stuff. Don't miss the deadline when letter arrives.
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Noah Irving
I'm wondering about the specifics of your verification process: • Did you have to use ID.me or visit an office in person? • Were you required to provide additional documentation beyond what was in the letter? • Did you receive any explanation for why you were selected? • Did the IRS provide any timeline for processing after verification? I've heard these verification requirements can vary significantly depending on your filing situation.
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Vanessa Chang
This is a standard Identity Verification Hold (IDV Hold). The IRS implemented enhanced verification protocols for Tax Year 2023 due to increased fraud prevention measures. What they told you about "everyone" needing verification is incorrect - approximately 18% of filers are selected based on Discriminant Function System (DFS) scoring. Once your 5071C letter arrives, you'll need to complete verification through the Identity Verification Service (IVS). Post-verification processing typically takes 9 weeks according to current Internal Revenue Manual guidelines.
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Madison King
Do you happen to know if there's any way to expedite this process? I've heard some people mention that visiting a Taxpayer Assistance Center might be faster than waiting for the letter.
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10d
Julian Paolo
According to IRM 3.42.8.5.1, taxpayers may request an expedited verification process if they can demonstrate financial hardship as defined in IRC §6343(a)(1)(D). The procedure requires submission of Form 911 (Taxpayer Advocate Service Application) with supporting documentation of immediate economic impact. In my experience last year, this reduced the verification timeline from 9 weeks to approximately 21 days.
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Ella Knight
Tired of waiting on hold for hours just to speak with someone at the IRS? Who isn't, right? After spending two full days trying to get through on the identity verification line, I discovered Claimyr (https://claimyr.com). They got me connected to an actual IRS agent in about 15 minutes who confirmed my identity verification status and provided the verification website link before my letter even arrived. Saved me at least 3 weeks of waiting. Worth every penny when you're anxiously waiting for thousands in refund money.
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William Schwarz
Word of caution from someone who's been through this rodeo before: DO NOT try to verify your identity before receiving the official letter! 😬 I tried calling and attempting to verify early last year and it actually flagged my account for additional review (oops!). The system is weird that way - trying to be proactive can sometimes backfire. When your letter arrives, follow the EXACT instructions - don't deviate even slightly. And maybe plan for your refund to arrive in May, just to be safe. Better to be pleasantly surprised than disappointed!
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Lauren Johnson
The community wisdom on identity verification seems to be: 1. It's probably legitimate, but the agent was incorrect that "everyone" has to verify 2. You might, possibly, be able to verify before receiving your letter if you speak to the right agent 3. The timeline they gave you is somewhat accurate, though perhaps a bit pessimistic 4. It may be worth trying to call again to see if a different agent gives you different options 5. Once verified, it typically takes about 9 weeks, give or take, for processing to complete In my experience, it's generally best to follow the official process, but it doesn't hurt to try calling again for more information.
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