 TITLE: How Does the IRS Verify Your Identity? CONTENT: It might so happen that the IRS receives a tax return filed under your name and SSN that raises some red flags. If they suspect fraudulent activity, they'll send a letter asking you to confirm that you indeed filed the return. This could prevent the fraud from going any further, and also provide a heads up that you might want to check your credit report and financial accounts for indications of other fraudulent activity.\nThe letter you get from the IRS will provide specific direction on your next steps, which may include securely verifying your identity online. This will require you to provide the following:\n*   Your personal account number from a credit card, mortgage, student loan, car loan, or home equity loan or line of credit\n*   A mobile phone number that's tied to your name\n*   The letter you received from the IRS\n*   The income tax return that corresponds to the letter\n*   The mailing address associated with your previous year's tax return\nIn some cases, you'll be instructed to call the IRS so the agency can verify your identity over the phone. If they're unable to do so for some reason, you can gather up the necessary documents and do it in person at your local IRS office. END