If you received IRS Notice CP5071 (or 5071C / 5071F), the IRS needs to verify your identity before continuing to process your tax return.
This usually happens when the IRS receives a tax return using your Social Security number (SSN) or ITIN and wants to confirm it was actually filed by you.
It doesn’t mean you did anything wrong. The IRS sends this notice as part of its identity-theft protection process.
Why the IRS sent this notice
You might receive CP5071 if the IRS notices something unusual about a return filed with your information, such as:
A return filed using your SSN that needs identity verification
A return that looks different from what you’ve filed in the past
Possible signs of identity theft
Changes to personal details like your address or filing status
When this happens, the IRS pauses processing until you verify your identity and confirm the return.
What to do next
Follow the instructions in your notice to verify your identity.
Usually you’ll need to:
Go to the IRS identity verification website listed in the letter
Sign in to your IRS account or create one
Confirm whether you filed the return
Answer questions about your tax return
If you can’t verify online, call the IRS phone number listed on your notice.
You can also contact the IRS Identity Verification line at 800-830-5084 if you need help verifying your identity.
Once you verify your identity, the IRS will continue processing your return.
What if you didn’t file the return?
If the notice refers to a return you didn’t file, contact the IRS using the number in your letter.
This could mean someone tried to file a tax return using your information.
The IRS will guide you through next steps to protect your account.
Will this delay my refund?
Possibly. The IRS won’t finish processing your return or issue a refund until you verify your identity.
Once verification is complete, the IRS will resume processing your return.
How to help prevent this in the future
If the IRS confirms identity theft or adds extra protection to your account, they may recommend using an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) when filing future returns.
See also:
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