IRS Letter 5071C: What It Means and What to Do Next

When you get an IRS Letter 5071C, a notice from the Internal Revenue Service asking you to verify your identity before processing your tax return. It’s not a penalty, not an audit, and not a mistake—it’s a security step the IRS uses to stop fraud. This letter shows up when the IRS sees a tax return that looks unusual—maybe the name, Social Security number, or refund amount doesn’t match their records. They’re not accusing you of anything. They’re just making sure it’s really you filing.

The IRS verification, the process the agency uses to confirm your identity before releasing refunds is simple but strict. You’ll get a code in the letter—usually a 5-digit number—and a website to visit. You can’t call them for help with this step. You can’t email it in. You have to go online, answer a few questions about your past returns or personal details, and enter that code. If you skip this, your refund could sit in limbo for months. If you do it right, you’ll get your money without delay.

This isn’t about being rich or poor. It happens to students, retirees, freelancers, and W-2 workers alike. The IRS gets millions of fake returns every year. They’re not targeting you—they’re protecting everyone. The tax identity verification, a system designed to prevent criminals from stealing your refund using stolen personal data is the same one used by banks and credit card companies. Think of it like a password reset for your tax account.

You might wonder why this keeps happening. The truth? Your personal info probably got leaked in a data breach years ago. Maybe from a hospital, a retailer, or even an old tax prep service. The IRS doesn’t know how it happened—they just know someone tried to file using your details. That’s why they lock the return and ask you to prove it’s you.

Don’t ignore this letter. Don’t panic. Don’t send your Social Security number over email. Just follow the steps. Go to the website listed. Answer the questions honestly. Enter the code. Done. Within a week, your return will start processing. If you mess up the online step, you’ll get a second letter telling you to call—but that’s rare.

And if you already filed your taxes but got this letter? Good. That means you’re ahead of the game. The IRS is just double-checking. If you haven’t filed yet? Wait until you get the letter, then file normally. The system will catch up.

There’s no secret trick. No hidden fee. No third-party service you need to pay for. The IRS doesn’t charge for this. If someone calls saying they can fix your 5071C for $99, hang up. It’s a scam. The only thing you need is your letter, your computer, and five minutes of your time.

Below, you’ll find real stories from people who’ve been through this—how they handled it, what went wrong, and what they wish they’d known sooner. No fluff. No jargon. Just what works when the IRS sends you that unexpected letter.