Identity verification letter

Last reviewed: May 2026

Identity verification letters ask you to confirm both who you are and whether the return in question was really filed by you.

Handle this IRS notice

This page explains the letter family in plain English and points you to the official IRS identity-verification path before you respond.

Open IRS identity-verification help View IRS Online Account Open review workspace

Always use the exact code on the letter because different identity letters can use different response paths.

How this notice usually works

What it usually means

This page covers the IRS identity-verification letter family.

Why you usually got it

You usually receive this type of letter when the IRS wants to protect the account before processing a return or issuing a refund.

What to do first

Match the exact code on the letter, follow that letter’s steps, and tell the IRS immediately if you did not file the return.

Time-sensitive note

Identity-verification letters can delay return processing or refunds until you respond.

Who this is for

People looking for a clearer, calmer path through this tax issue.

When to use this page

Use this page when you need a practical next step, not just a definition.

What to gather

Relevant income records
Statements, receipts, or notices
Tax-year-specific forms if needed

Forms that may matter

Forms depend on the page topic

Step-by-step

Use the summary to decide if this page matches your situation.
Gather the records listed here before making a tax decision.
Follow the step-by-step actions and move into the related tool or next page.

Official sources

Sources and authority

Sources 2/2 Good source coverage Updated May 2026

IRS

TaxHackAI Help Center

Authority source

Action plan

Notice response checklist

Use the dashboard to keep the notice, supporting records, and your review steps connected before you answer or pay.

Checklist progress

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Do first

Match the exact code on the letter, follow that letter’s steps, and tell the IRS immediately if you did not file the return.

Watch the deadline

Identity-verification letters can delay return processing or refunds until you respond.

Understand the issue

You usually receive this type of letter when the IRS wants to protect the account before processing a return or issuing a refund.

Use these tools

Open IRS identity-verification help View IRS Online Account

Use TaxHackAI

Keep the IRS notice and your records together. Work from the due date and issue code first. Use review to mark anything that still needs proof.

Check authority

This page currently shows 2 sources.

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