How to Verify Your Identity With the IRS Over the Phone
Learn how to efficiently verify your identity with the IRS over the phone, ensuring a smooth and secure process.
Verifying your identity with the IRS over the phone is an important step for taxpayers needing to resolve issues or access sensitive information. This process ensures that personal and financial data remain secure, protecting against unauthorized access and fraud.
Documents You Need
When verifying your identity with the IRS, having the correct documents is essential. Start by having your most recent tax return on hand. This document contains your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI), a key figure used for verification. The AGI reflects your total income minus specific deductions and is critical for tax-related processes.
Additionally, have a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport, for visual verification. You’ll also need your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to access your records. If you’ve received IRS correspondence, keep it nearby, as it may include reference numbers or details relevant to your inquiry.
Scheduling Your Call
To schedule a call with the IRS, plan ahead. The IRS operates Monday through Friday, typically from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time. To reduce wait times, avoid calling during peak periods like Mondays or lunch hours. Mid-morning or mid-afternoon on a Wednesday or Thursday generally offers shorter queues.
Prepare a quiet, distraction-free environment for the call and have all necessary documents within reach. A notepad can also be helpful for taking notes or recording instructions during the conversation.
Identity Check Steps
When you connect with an IRS representative, they will begin by asking for your full name and date of birth to establish a baseline identity check. They will then confirm your tax filing status, such as single, married filing jointly, or head of household, ensuring it matches IRS records.
The representative may ask about specific details from your most recent tax return, such as taxable income or total tax owed. These figures provide additional verification to confirm your identity. Familiarize yourself with this information beforehand to ensure a smooth process.
Confirming Completion
Once the verification process is complete, the IRS representative will confirm whether your identity has been successfully verified. They will then address your original inquiry, such as resolving a tax notice or providing access to specific tax transcripts.
Pay close attention to any instructions or next steps provided. For example, if resolving a tax discrepancy, you may need to file an amended return using Form 1040-X. Following these instructions carefully ensures your tax matters are resolved efficiently.