The IRS reaches out to taxpayers through regular mail, not phone calls, texts or email messages. And IRS agents will never call you and ask for your Social Security number or other personal information.

How can I verify my identity with the IRS right now?

The IRS offers only two ways to verify your identity:

1. Online at the IRS Identity Verification Service website.
2. By phone at the toll-free number listed on your 5071C Letter.

Why would a Social Security number be invalid?

What happens is, a Social Security Number (SSN) has to match up against a person’s name when it’s compared with the government’s database, so there could be a mismatch if names are not entered correctly, or if names don’t match what the government has.

Does the IRS send mail with Social Security number?

624, Social Security Number Fraud Prevention Act of 2017, which restricts the inclusion of social security account numbers on federal documents sent by mail unless the head of the agency determines that the inclusion of the SSN is necessary.

How can I verify my Social Security number?

The Social Security Number Verification Service – This free online service allows registered users to verify that the names and Social Security numbers of hired employees match Social Security’s records.

Do you have to list your Social Security number on your tax return?

You generally must list on your individual income tax return the social security number (SSN) of any person for whom you claim an exemption. If your dependent or spouse does not have and is not eligible to get an SSN, you must list the ITIN instead of an SSN.

Can a Social Security card be used as proof of identity?

Because Social Security number printouts are not official documents with security features, and are easily misused or counterfeited, eliminating printouts will help prevent identity theft. A Social Security card is legal proof of a Social Security number.

When do I need to verify my identity with the IRS?

In some instances, you will need to verify your identity with the IRS. This helps prevent an identity thief from getting your refund. Use this service only if you have a: You received a 5071C letter, 5747C letter, 6331C letter, or 5447C letter and your financial and phone information is U.S. based, or;