In-Person Verification Process - What You Actually Need to Bring

After my divorce finalized 73 days ago, I needed to verify my identity in person with the IRS. I wanted to share the exact requirements since many people seem confused. The process took exactly 27 minutes from entry to exit. You need precisely 2 items: 1. Two forms of valid identification (I brought my driver's license and passport) 2. A complete copy of your tax return (all pages, not just the summary) I arrived at 9:15am and was seen by 9:42am. The verification itself took only 8 minutes. The agent compared my ID to my face, verified the information against my tax return, and entered 6 verification codes into their system. No need to wait for the letter if you're in a hurry - just bring these items and the process is straightforward. I documented each step in case anyone needs a clear roadmap.

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20 comments

Katherine Hunter

I've been through this process twice before - once in 2019 and again in 2023. The requirements have been consistent both times. You definitely need an appointment these days. I scheduled mine 14 days in advance through the IRS appointment line (844-545-5640). They're very strict about the two forms of ID - one MUST be government-issued with a photo. The second can be a credit card, utility bill, or another government document. When I went on February 8th, I counted 17 people in the waiting area, but the process itself was efficient once I got to the desk.

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- 11d

Harper Collins

This in-person verification feels like trying to board a plane with no boarding pass - stressful and confusing! I had my appointment last week, but the line was like a DMV on the last day of the month. Waited almost 2 hours despite having an appointment! If you're struggling to even get through to make an appointment, I used Claimyr (https://claimyr.com) to connect with the IRS appointment line. It's like having a fast-pass at an amusement park - got through in about 15 minutes instead of the constant busy signals I was getting before. The appointment itself was exactly as OP described though - they just need to see your ID and tax return.

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- 11d

Sydney Torres

There are a few additional things people should know about this process that might help: 1. Arrive at least 15 minutes before your appointment time 2. Some locations have metal detectors and security screening 3. Cell phones may not be allowed past security in certain offices 4. If you're bringing dependents, you'll need their ID documentation too 5. The verification is separate from any tax issues - they won't discuss your actual return contents 6. If you filed jointly, only one spouse needs to complete verification I'm slightly worried that different offices might interpret the requirements differently, but these seem to be the standard procedures across most locations I've heard about.

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- 10d

Kaitlyn Jenkins

The Identity Verification process (IdVer) is distinct from a standard Taxpayer Assistance Center appointment. IdVer appointments specifically address potential identity theft concerns, while TAC appointments handle broader issues. The two forms of identification must meet the Acceptable Documentation standards outlined in Publication 1586, with one being a primary photo ID (passport, driver's license, or state ID) and the secondary ID potentially including birth certificate, Social Security card, or voter registration card. Military IDs are accepted as primary identification across all locations.

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- 10d