Got a Letter from the IRS to Verify Your Identity? Here’s What to Do

Got a Letter from the IRS to Verify Your Identity? Here’s What to Do

You’ve filed your U.S. tax return, and suddenly, the IRS asks you to verify your identity — delaying your expected refund.

Frustrating? Definitely. But you’re not alone.
Identity verification is a common IRS procedure to protect taxpayers from fraud — especially as identity theft affects millions of filers each year.

In fact, during the 2024 filing season, the IRS paused over 1.9 million returns for identity verification.

If this happens to you, don’t panic. This guide from J1 Summer Tax Back will explain exactly why the IRS is asking, what to expect, and how to complete the process smoothly.

Why Is the IRS Asking Me to Verify My Identity?

There are two main reasons the IRS may ask you to verify your identity:

  1. Random selection as part of fraud prevention

  2. A potential mismatch or red flag in your tax filing

Common triggers include:

  • Differences between your current and prior tax returns

  • Filing from a new address

  • A change in filing status (e.g., single to married)

  • W-2 or data breaches at your employer

  • Your personal data being part of a known security breach

When the IRS suspects that a tax return filed under your name may be fraudulent, it pauses processing until your identity is confirmed.

What Will You Receive?

If your return is flagged, the IRS will send a letter by mail (never by email or text).
Here are the most common notices:

Letter Type Purpose Verification Method
5071C Potential identity theft Online option available
4883C Identity verification needed Phone only
5447C For taxpayers with a foreign address Online or phone
5747C Rare – in-person verification required Appointment at IRS center

These letters outline how to verify your identity and what documents you’ll need.

Step-by-Step: What to Do if You Receive an IRS Letter

1. Make Sure the Letter Is Legitimate

Scammers often impersonate the IRS.
Real IRS letters are sent only via U.S. mail — never by email, text, or phone call.

If you’re unsure, confirm your notice by:

  • Visiting the IRS website’s official scam alert page

  • Calling the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040

2. Gather Your Documents

Before verifying your identity, prepare:

  • The IRS letter you received

  • Your previous year’s tax return

  • Your current year’s return (if filed)

  • A valid photo ID (passport, driver’s license, or state ID)

If the letter requests additional forms, make sure to have them ready.

3. Verify Your Identity

Depending on your letter, you’ll have one of three verification options:

a) Online Verification

  • Visit the IRS verification website (link in your letter)

  • Log in or create an IRS online account

  • Answer security questions about your tax and financial history

b) By Phone

  • Call the number listed in your letter (Taxpayer Protection Program)

  • Have your ID and tax returns ready

  • Call early in the day — wait times can be long

c) In Person (for foreign or special cases)

  • Call the Taxpayer Assistance Center to schedule an appointment

  • Bring:

    • The IRS letter

    • Current and prior-year tax returns

    • Photo ID

    • Supporting income documents (W-2s, 1099s, etc.)

4. Wait for Processing

After completing the verification, the IRS will resume processing your return.
Refunds typically arrive within 9 weeks, depending on your case.

5. Protect Yourself Against Future Identity Theft

Even if your verification goes smoothly, it’s wise to take preventive measures:

  • Apply for an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) from the IRS — a 6-digit code that locks your tax identity

  • Use strong, unique passwords for online accounts

  • Keep your financial information private

  • Monitor your credit report regularly

  • Report suspicious activity at IdentityTheft.gov

How J1 Summer Tax Back Helps

Tax filing can be stressful enough — especially for international students and nonresidents.
If you’ve received an IRS identity verification letter, J1 Summer Tax Back can support you through every step.

Here’s how we help:

  1. 🧾 IRS Communication Support – we guide you through identity verification and correspondence.

  2. ✅ Secure Filing – we ensure your 1040-NR and Form 8843 filings are 100% compliant.

  3. 💬 Expert Assistance – access tax specialists who understand nonresident and student tax issues.

  4. 💸 Peace of Mind – our team helps safeguard your refund and prevent future identity-related delays.

Your refund is worth protecting — and J1 Summer Tax Back is here to help you do it confidently.