ID Verification Nightmare - Multiple Calls But No Notice Yet

I went through this exact same mess last month. Kept calling, kept getting different answers about ID verification. What worked for me was calling very early - like 7:01am when they first open. I also made sure I had all my documents ready: last year's AGI, this year's W-2 info, and all my personal info written down so I wouldn't fumble when they asked. The most frustrating part was getting different questions each time! One agent wanted my bank account info, another didn't. Keep pushing - I finally got verified on my 4th call and my refund hit my account 9 days later.

Does anyone know exactly how long after verification the refund typically processes? I verified my identity exactly 12 days ago, and WMR still shows "Your tax return is still being processed." I'm supposed to close on a house in exactly 17 days and was counting on this money for closing costs. Should I be concerned that something else is wrong?

The ID verification process has changed this year. They're not sending notices in advance anymore for many cases - instead they're flagging returns and requiring verification before processing. This is causing major delays for people who don't know they need to verify. The questions they ask are pulled from credit reports and previous tax returns to confirm your identity. If you answer incorrectly, it can lock you out and require an in-person appointment, which can take weeks to schedule.

Have you considered how much time you're wasting on hold with the IRS? I was in the same position last month - calling repeatedly, waiting for hours, getting disconnected. Isn't it frustrating that they have a system that can't handle the call volume? I finally used Claimyr (https://www.claimyr.com) and got through to an agent in about 15 minutes instead of waiting for hours. They basically call the IRS for you and when they reach an agent, they connect you. Saved me from wasting an entire day on hold, and I got my ID verification completed on the first try. For time-sensitive issues like ID verification, it's worth considering.

I'm skeptical about the information you're getting from these calls. According to IRS Publication 5027, identity verification notices should be mailed within 30 days of filing. The fact that multiple representatives told you a notice is coming by the 17th indicates your return has been flagged by the Taxpayer Protection Program (TPP). Section 6103 of the Internal Revenue Code prohibits them from completing verification without proper documentation, which is why they're likely telling you to wait for the letter. I wouldn't keep calling - it won't speed up the process.

You need to act NOW rather than waiting for that notice! This is much more urgent than people realize. Compared to other verification issues, ID verification can delay your refund by 9-12 weeks if not addressed immediately. I've seen cases where people waited for the letter and ended up with their returns being suspended entirely, requiring them to refile. At minimum, you should try to get through to the dedicated Identity Verification line at 800-830-5084 rather than the general IRS number. If you can verify now, you might get your refund in 2-3 weeks, whereas waiting could push it into July or August.

SUCCESS UPDATE! After reading all your advice, I finally got through and completed my verification! Here's what worked: • Called the specific ID Verify number (800-830-5084) not the general line • Called at 7:02am exactly when they opened • Had ALL my documents ready: last 2 tax returns, W2, divorce papers, SSN card • Asked specifically for ID verification specialist • Stayed super polite even when frustrated The agent confirmed my identity and said my refund should process within 9 business days! Such a relief after 3 months of stress. Thanks everyone for your help!