Got 5071C letter from IRS - Need advice on identity verification process
Hey everyone, I just got a 5071C letter from the IRS and I'm freaking out a little. They're saying they need to verify my identity before they can process my tax return. Has anyone dealt with this before? What should I expect when I call them? I'm worried about saying the wrong thing and messing up my refund. Any advice would be really appreciated!
20 comments
Tom Maxon
I found a way to solve IRS identity verification issues, watch this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gk48TOUO-30
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Omar Farouk
Don't worry, I've been through this before. It's actually pretty common. Here's what you need to do: • Gather your documents: You'll need your current and previous year's tax returns, plus any supporting docs. • Go online first: Try the IRS Identity Verification Service at idverify.irs.gov. It's faster if you can do it there. • If you can't do it online, call the number on your letter. • Be ready to answer questions about your personal info, past addresses, and maybe old employers. • Stay calm! The agent is just doing their job to protect you from identity theft. It might take a few weeks after verification for your refund to process, but it'll come through. Good luck!
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Freya Andersen
Thank you so much for this detailed response! It's really helpful to know what to expect. Do you remember how long the whole process took for you?
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Omar Farouk
No problem! For me, the verification call took about 20 minutes. Then it was about 3 weeks before I got my refund. But I've heard it can vary, so don't panic if it takes a bit longer.
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CosmicCadet
This is great advice! I'd add: make sure you're calling from the phone number they have on file for you. They're super strict about that.
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Chloe Harris
ugh the IRS is such a pain 🙄 why do they make everything so complicated?
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Diego Mendoza
ikr? its like they want us to mess up so they can keep are money 🤑
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Anastasia Popova
To be fair, identity theft is a real problem. Better safe than sorry, even if it's annoying.
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Sean Flanagan
I found a way to get someone on the phone without waiting forever. 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/Jc9x-gysK0
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Zara Shah
Sounds too good to be true. Is this legit?
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Sean Flanagan
Yep, totally legit. I was skeptical too, but it saved me hours of hold time. Worth every penny imo.
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NebulaNomad
How does it work exactly? Do they give you a specific time to be ready for the call?
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Sean Flanagan
They start calling right away and you just keep your phone nearby. When they get a human, they connect you. I got my call in about 2 hours.
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Luca Ferrari
Pro tip: if you can, try to verify online. I did mine through the website and it was WAY faster than calling. Just make sure you have all your docs ready before you start!
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Nia Wilson
Am I the only one who thinks its crazy that we have to jump through all these hoops just to get OUR OWN MONEY back? 🤦♂️
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Mateo Martinez
Preach! 🙌 The whole system needs an overhaul.
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Aisha Hussain
You're not wrong, but identity theft is a real issue. Better safe than sorry, I guess.
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Ethan Clark
Quick question - does anyone know if this delay will affect my ability to apply for a loan? I was counting on that refund for a down payment 😬
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StarStrider
Oof, that's tough. You might want to talk to your lender and explain the situation. They might be able to work with you.
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Yuki Sato
lol welcome to the club 🎉 I've been dealing with the IRS for MONTHS trying to get my refund. Hope you have better luck than me!
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