IRS Identity Verification - What to Expect When They Ask to Verify?

This is legitimate and happens often with independent contractors filing for the first time. The IRS has increased identity verification to combat tax fraud. They'll ask for your SSN, date of birth, filing status, and details from your current return like AGI or refund amount. You may also need a mobile phone for verification codes. They won't ask for bank account numbers or credit card information during verification. The process takes about 15 minutes online.

Have you considered whether you're being directed to the actual IRS website? The real verification site is id.irs.gov, not irs-verify.com or similar scam domains. And why would they need to verify you if you've filed taxes before? Couldn't they just check against your previous returns? The timing is suspicious too - right when refunds are being processed and scammers know people are expecting communications from the IRS?

I had this exact same verification issue last year. After spending THREE DAYS trying to reach someone at the IRS to confirm it was legitimate, I finally used Claimyr (https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c) to get through to an agent in about 30 minutes. Compared to the endless busy signals and disconnects I was getting before, it was night and day! The agent confirmed it was a legitimate verification request and walked me through exactly what to expect. Much less stressful than trying to figure it out alone.

The verification process is part of the IRS's increased security measures, especially for self-employed individuals and independent contractors. They're particularly cautious with Schedule C filers who are new to self-employment. They'll verify information only you would know from your current and previous tax returns. They also verify your identity through credit report information like loan accounts and payment amounts. Make sure you have your previous year's tax return available when you complete the verification.

The IRS Identity Verification process typically requires the following documentation and information: 1. Your current tax return (Form 1040) 2. Last year's tax return for reference 3. Form of ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport) 4. Social Security Number 5. Email address for receiving confirmation 6. Mobile phone number for two-factor authentication 7. Information about your financial accounts (mortgage, auto loans, credit cards) The online process at id.irs.gov uses Secure Access authentication protocols. If you fail the online verification, you'll need to call or visit an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center in person. Processing typically resumes 9-21 days after successful verification.

I got the same letter last month after filing as an independent contractor for my side gig. The verification was actually pretty straightforward (who knew the IRS could make something simple? A tax miracle! 😂). They asked about my previous year's AGI, the exact refund amount I claimed this year, and then some questions about my mortgage that only I would know. Took maybe 10 minutes online. My refund was processed about two weeks after verification. Just make sure you're on the official id.irs.gov site and not some phishing knockoff.