Need to Submit W2 to Release Refund Freeze - Fax Option or In-Person Visit Required?

Oh my goodness, this is a common issue this tax season! You actually have multiple options for submitting your W2, but it depends on WHY they're requesting it. The IRS typically requests W2 documentation when there's a mismatch between what you reported and what they received from your employer, or if they suspect identity verification is needed. I'm concerned that without knowing which department requested it or what notice you received, you might send it to the wrong place!

I've seen this exact situation dozens of times. It's similar to when the IRS froze returns claiming education credits last year - they're doing targeted verification. Your tax preparer should have received a specific notice with instructions, unlike general audits where they send you a formal letter directly. If you're trying to figure out what's going on with your transcript, https://taxr.ai can help decode it. I've had clients use it to identify exactly which verification process they're in - whether it's income verification, identity verification, or something else. Each has different submission requirements. Without knowing the specific freeze code on your transcript, you're shooting in the dark.

I went through something similar recently. My experience: • Received CP05 notice requesting W2 verification • Notice included specific fax number (different from general IRS fax) • Tried mailing instead of faxing - BIG mistake • Added 8 weeks to processing time • Had to call multiple times to confirm receipt I'm slightly worried you might not have the actual notice, which is critical. The fax number varies based on which department is reviewing your return.

Calling the IRS is your best option. You need the specific fax number for your case. General fax numbers won't work. I tried calling for three days straight. No luck. Used Claimyr to get through. Connected in 30 minutes. Agent gave me the exact fax number. Sent my W2. Refund released two weeks later. Worth every penny to avoid the runaround. Here's their link: https://claimyr.com

Be extremely careful about how you submit your W2! Last year my sister faxed her W2 to what she thought was the right department, but it wasn't properly routed to her case. Her refund was delayed for 5 months, and she had to start the verification process all over again in June. Did your tax preparer specifically tell you which form or notice number you received? Was it a CP05, CP75, or something else? Have you checked your online account at IRS.gov to see if there's a specific notice?

I successfully resolved this exact issue last month! (Tax season: where the odds are never in your favor, lol.) I asked my tax preparer for the specific notice number, called the IRS using the number on that notice, and they provided the exact fax number for my case. I sent my W2 with a copy of the notice and received confirmation of processing within 10 days. My refund was deposited exactly 16 days after faxing the documents. Make sure you get a fax confirmation page and keep it until your refund arrives!