IDENTITY VERIFICATION NOTICES
Q
My client has received an IRS notice relating to identity verification. What does this mean and what do I tell them?
A
This means the IRS wants to verify their identity before continuing to process their return. It could mean someone else has already tried to file a return in their social security number. Here is an email to copy/paste to your client -
While we are here for you and welcome your questions, we cannot handle identity verification notices as we do not have the information that the IRS requires to verify the taxpayer.
To verify identity, it involves not only the last 2 returns, but also mortgage, credit card, student loan, car loan, or other information which we don't have. It also involves authentication by a text message to a cell phone registered in your name.
Here is a link that you can use to assist through the process:
https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/identity-verification-for-irs-letter-recipients
To avoid this in the future, you may wish to apply for an Identity Protection PIN. You can find out more by checking out the article on the ADKF website, A Proactive Way to Protect Your Tax-Related Identity.
