Got IRS Letter 4883C - How to verify identity and what to expect?

Ugh, I got one of those last year. It's basically the IRS saying they need to verify your identity before they can process your return. You'll need to call them and answer some questions to prove you are who you say you are.

Pro tip: Use claimyr.com to get through to an IRS agent faster. It costs $20 but it dials for you, waits on hold, and then connects you when a real person picks up. Saved me hours of frustration. Here's a video explaining how it works: https://youtu.be/5jrMesbidvI

Here's what you need to know about Letter 4883C: • It's sent when the IRS suspects potential identity theft • You MUST respond or your return won't be processed • Have ready: the letter, this year's return, last year's return, and any W-2s or 1099s • They'll ask questions only the real taxpayer would know • The whole process usually takes 15-30 minutes on the phone • After verification, it can take up to 9 weeks to process your return Don't panic, it's fairly routine. Just be prepared and patient!

am i the only 1 who thinks its ridiculous we have to jump through all these hoops? the whole system needs an overhaul smh

Quick tip: if u cant get thru on the main IRS line, try calling your local Taxpayer Advocate Service. They can sometimes help push things along.

I got this letter too! Freaked me out at first, thought I was in trouble or something 😅

Has anyone had success getting this resolved online? I hate making phone calls 😖

I went through this exact same thing about 6 months ago! Don't stress too much - it's actually pretty straightforward once you get through to someone. Just make sure you call from the phone number that's on file with the IRS, and have your Social Security card handy too. They might ask for details about previous addresses or family members. The wait times can be brutal though, so definitely try calling first thing in the morning around 7 AM when they open - that's when I had the most luck getting through quickly.