What to Do About IRS Error Code 2099
Understand why IRS Error Code 2099 occurs and learn the procedural steps for accessing your tax information when this security lockout is triggered.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) uses Error Code 2099 when it cannot verify your identity online. This guide explains the error and the actions required to access your tax documents.
Understanding IRS Error Code 2099
IRS Error Code 2099 is a security feature that appears when the IRS online system cannot verify your identity. This is not an issue with your tax return, but a lockout to protect your information. To verify you, the system cross-references the information you provide with data from independent, third-party sources.
An identity verification failure can be triggered by several situations, including:
- Entering financial information, like an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) or refund amount, that does not match a previous tax return.
- Having a security freeze on your credit report, which prevents the IRS from accessing verification data.
- Exceeding the maximum number of login attempts.
- A mismatch in personal information due to a recent move or legal name change.
- Filing a tax return for the first time, resulting in an insufficient financial history for verification.
Steps to Access Your IRS Information
When you are locked out of the online system, the first step is to wait. The system automatically locks your account for 24 hours after a failed identity verification attempt. Attempting to log in before this period expires will restart the 24-hour lockout.
If waiting is not an option, you can request your tax information by mail using the “Get Transcript by Mail” service on the IRS website. You will need to provide your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), date of birth, and the mailing address from your most recent tax return. The transcript will be mailed to that address.
Another way to request documents by mail is by submitting Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return. This form can be downloaded from the IRS website and must be mailed or faxed to the service center listed in its instructions. You must provide your name, SSN or ITIN, address, and specify the transcript type and tax years needed.
You can also contact the IRS directly by phone. Before calling, have your personal information ready, including your SSN or ITIN, date of birth, and filing status. A copy of your prior-year tax return is also helpful, as an IRS representative will ask questions to verify your identity.