ID Verification Process - How Were You Notified About Second Verification?

The dual verification process is actually quite common in the current tax processing paradigm. Primary verification typically occurs via the online ID.me portal (initial authentication), while secondary verification can manifest in several modalities: 1. Online Account Notification: Most frequent method - appears in your IRS online account messaging center approximately 7-14 days post-initial verification 2. CP01E Letter: Physical correspondence requesting additional verification steps 3. Transcript Status Code: A 570 freeze code with accompanying 971 notice code on your account transcript I'd recommend monitoring both your online account and transcript daily to ensure timely response to any secondary verification requests.

Second verification isn't universal - it depends on specific risk factors in your return. The IRS implements a tiered verification protocol based on their Taxpayer Protection Program (TPP) algorithms. If you've already completed ID.me verification, monitor your IRS transcript for code 9001 (verification complete) vs code 4883 (additional verification needed). Second verification typically arrives via physical mail with a specific verification code that must be entered online or verified by phone with an IRS representative.

It's probably worth noting that the verification process might be somewhat different for gig workers compared to traditional W-2 employees. The IRS often applies additional scrutiny to self-employment income, particularly for first-time filers with substantial Schedule C income. In many cases, the second verification isn't technically a "second verification" but rather a manual review process that happens after the automated identity verification. This manual review might require you to verify specific elements of your return, such as confirming business expenses or providing documentation of income sources. If you filed with significant business deductions or credits, there's a higher likelihood of this secondary review process being triggered. The notification usually comes through your IRS online account, but can sometimes be via mail or even a phone call from an IRS representative.

My second verification experience was nothing like my experience with state taxes. With state, I got clear notifications at every step. With IRS, I found out about needing more verification only after waiting 8 weeks and seeing no movement. I finally called using Claimyr (https://claimyr.com) to connect with an agent quickly instead of waiting on hold for hours. The agent confirmed I needed additional verification but the notification had never been sent! They helped me complete it right over the phone. Without that call, I might still be waiting and wondering what happened. Compared to my state experience, the IRS communication was practically non-existent.

Tbh most ppl don't get a second verification. It's mostly for ppl w/ complicated returns or first-time filers w/ self-employment. My first verification was thru ID.me but then got a letter 2 wks later asking for more docs to prove my gig income was legit. Had to send in 1099s, bank statements, etc. The annoying part? The letter came to my old address even tho I updated everything online! Almost missed the 30-day deadline which woulda reset my whole return. Def check your mail AND online acct. Don't assume one or the other.

I got my second verification notification through the IRS2Go app. It appeared as an alert. This was unexpected. Most people don't know this option exists. The app notification came five days after my first verification. I completed it online immediately. My refund processed within a week after that. No letters needed. No phone calls required. The digital process was efficient.

Check the IRS verification requirements page (https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/identity-verification-for-irs-letter-recipients) regularly! I verified once through ID.me and thought I was done. Didn't check my spam folder for THREE MONTHS. Found a second verification letter there that was already expired. Had to start my entire return processing over from the beginning. Lost my place in the processing queue. According to the IRS Operational Status page, they're currently processing returns from early March while I'm now back at the end of the line.