Got IRS Identity Verification Notice 5071C - What to do?

Ugh, I got one of those last year. It's a pain but not as bad as it seems. You'll need to verify your identity either online or by phone. Have you tried going to the IRS website? There should be instructions there.

I found a way to actually get someone on the phone. 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/bDXD2SD0gGk

The IRS is such a joke. Why can't they just have a normal system like every other government agency? 🙄

I've been through this process before, and I can provide some detailed steps to help you out: 1. Go to the official IRS website (www.irs.gov) and look for the Identity Verification section. 2. You'll need to create an account if you don't already have one. This requires some personal info, so have your SSN, tax return, and a mobile phone ready. 3. Once you're logged in, you'll answer a series of questions to verify your identity. These are usually about past addresses, loan amounts, etc. 4. If you can't verify online, you'll need to call the number on your 5071C letter. Be prepared for a long wait. 5. Whether online or by phone, you'll need to confirm details from your previous year's tax return. 6. After verification, it usually takes about 9 weeks for the IRS to process your return. Hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.

has anyone tried using one of those tax prep services to deal with this? wondering if its worth the money

PSA: Be careful of scams! There are a lot of people out there trying to take advantage of folks dealing with IRS issues. Always double check you're on the official IRS website and never give out personal info over the phone unless you initiated the call.

lol welcome to the club 🙃 been dealing with this nonsense for months. good luck!