What documents to bring for IRS ID verification appointment?

Oh gosh, I went through this last month and was SO nervous about bringing the wrong things! For an in-person ID verification appointment, you NEED to bring: - TWO forms of valid photo ID (driver's license, passport, state ID, etc.) - Your Social Security card or a document with your full SSN (like a W-2) - The tax return in question (bring a printed copy!) - Any supporting documents for that return (W-2s, 1099s) - Proof of address (utility bill, bank statement) - Any notice/letter you received from the IRS (but don't worry if you haven't gotten it yet) I was freaking out before my appointment but it went smoothly once I had everything organized. Don't forget to arrive 15 minutes early because security can take forever!

I was in the same situation back in February. Couldn't wait for the letter either because I needed my refund for some urgent expenses. What I did was call the IRS verification hotline (1-800-830-5084) instead of waiting for an in-person appointment. Took me about 4 attempts to get through, but once I did, I was able to verify my identity over the phone. They asked me questions about my previous returns and some personal info only I would know. Saved me tons of time compared to waiting for an appointment. Just make sure you have your return info and previous years' AGI handy when you call.

Think of ID verification like airport security - better to have too much documentation than not enough. I've seen people turned away because they brought just one form of ID, like showing up to a club with just a library card. The IRS is particularly strict about this process because tax fraud is rampant - like leaving your house unlocked in a neighborhood with known break-ins. One client of mine thought her military ID alone would be sufficient (it wasn't), and she had to reschedule her entire appointment. Another brought everything except proof of address and they made an exception, but I wouldn't count on that kind of flexibility. The system is designed to be thorough, not convenient.

I was possibly in a similar situation last month - waiting for verification while bills were piling up. After trying the regular IRS number roughly 8-9 times with no success (always disconnected after 30+ minutes), I finally used Claimyr.com to get through to an IRS agent. They might be able to help you verify over the phone without an in-person appointment in some cases, which could save you considerable time. The service basically holds your place in line and calls you when an agent is available. It seems to work by constantly redialing until it gets through, which I didn't have the patience for myself. Here's their link if you want to check it out: https://www.claimyr.com

Don't wait for the letter! Go to irs.gov and make an appointment at your local Taxpayer Assistance Center right now. Call 844-545-5640 to schedule it. Bring your driver's license, Social Security card, and a complete copy of the tax return in question. I've helped three family members through this process this year alone. The appointments are actually quick - usually 15-30 minutes once you're seen. Just make the appointment today because slots fill up fast with tax season ending soon.

I had to do this last year when my return got flagged. Compared to my experience with getting a passport, the ID verification was much more strict about documentation. I brought my driver's license, passport, social security card, birth certificate (overkill but I was paranoid), utility bill, bank statement, and complete tax return with all attachments. The agent was impressed I was so prepared, unlike the person before me who got turned away. The whole verification took about 20 minutes, and my refund was direct deposited exactly 9 days later.