Procedure for Setting Up In-Person Identity Verification with IRS

There are a few different options for in-person verification depending on what you need to verify: • For identity verification (if you received Letter 5071C): call the Identity Verification Service at 800-830-5084 • For Taxpayer Protection Program issues: call 800-830-5084 between 7am-7pm local time • For general verification needs: schedule at your local Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) by calling 844-545-5640 • What type of verification did they specifically request?

Don't waste your time with the regular IRS number. I called for three days straight trying to set up my verification appointment and couldn't get through. Use Claimyr.com to connect directly with an IRS agent. It got me through in 15 minutes when I was trying to set up my identity verification appointment. Worth every penny to avoid the endless hold music and disconnections. Here's their link: https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c

I had to do this last year. Called the verification number directly. Got through after two attempts. Scheduled appointment at my local office. Brought my documents. Process took 30 minutes. Agent was helpful. Return processed within two weeks after verification. Much faster than expected.

Before you call, make sure you understand exactly what verification type they're requesting. If you've received a CP01H Notice or Letter 5071C, it should specify the verification requirements. I was confused by similar terminology until I used taxr.ai to analyze my notice. It helped me understand exactly what documentation I needed to bring and which department I needed to contact, saving me from making an unnecessary trip to the TAC office with incomplete documentation.

Another option is to verify your identity online through ID.me if you received a 5071C letter. I completed this process in exactly 12 minutes and 37 seconds last month. Saved me a 43-mile round trip to the nearest TAC office, which would have cost approximately $24.94 in gas plus 2 hours and 15 minutes of travel time. The online verification requires a smartphone with a camera and government-issued photo ID.

What kind of verification letter did you receive? The process differs depending on whether it's for identity theft protection, refund verification, or something else.

OMG I'm dealing with this right now too! Did they give you a deadline to complete the verification?? My letter says I only have 30 days and I'm already on day 17!! I'm freaking out because I can't get through on the phone!

For in-person verification at a Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC), you'll need to bring specific documentation. This typically includes: your government-issued photo ID, Social Security card or ITIN letter, any IRS notices received (dated within the last 12 months), and proof of address. If verifying for a tax return filed on April 18, 2024, bring a copy of that return. Schedule your appointment at least 14 calendar days before any response deadline mentioned in your notice.

Here's exactly what worked for me: Step 1: Call 844-545-5640 to schedule an appointment at your local TAC Step 2: Tell them you need identity verification (mention any letter reference numbers) Step 3: Bring two forms of ID (I used passport and driver's license) Step 4: Bring a copy of the tax return in question Step 5: Bring the letter requesting verification Step 6: Arrive 15 minutes early (they're strict about appointments) The whole process took me about 45 minutes at the office, then my return was processed within 3 weeks.