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IRS 5071C: Identity Verification Required
Straight answer: A 5071C letter means the IRS suspects a return filed under your SSN might not be yours, and is holding it (including any refund) until you verify your identity online or by phone.
How many days do I have to respond to a 5071C?
30 days from the date printed on the notice (not the day you opened it). Verify promptly — your return is frozen until you do. If YOU didn't file the return in question, say so during verification: that's the identity-theft path.
Your response deadline is approximately — days from today.
What should I do right now?
- Verify at the IRS's online identity verification service (the notice gives the exact link) using the notice, your prior-year return, and current return.
- If online fails, call the number on the letter.
- If you didn't file the flagged return, report the identity theft when prompted and file Form 14039 if directed.
The costly mistake people make with a 5071C
Treating it as spam. Also: using contact info from anywhere OTHER than the letter or IRS.gov — 5071C is heavily imitated by scammers.
Do I need professional help with a 5071C?
Usually self-serviceable. Get help if actual identity theft is confirmed and multiple years are affected.
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