- What it means
- The IRS received a return with your name and Social Security number and wants you to confirm you filed it before it is processed.
- Respond within
- 30 days from the date on the notice
- What to send
- Nothing by mail. Verify online through the IRS identity verification service or by phone using the number on IRS.gov for this letter.
- Write it
- Document cover letter
- When to get help
- If you did not file the return described, that is identity theft. Follow the steps in the letter and file Form 14039 if the IRS asks for it.
What the letter says
A return was filed under your number and something about it tripped the IRS filters. Nothing is wrong yet. The return is on hold until you confirm it is yours.
How to verify
Online is fastest: the IRS identity verification service at the address printed in the letter, which is on IRS.gov. You will need the letter, the return it refers to, a prior year return, and a government ID. By phone, use the number listed on the IRS page for Letter 5071C, not a number from an email or text.
If you filed the return
Verify and the return resumes processing, usually within nine weeks.
If you did not
Tell the IRS during verification. The fraudulent return is pulled, and you file your real return on paper with Form 14039 attached.
Scam check
The IRS never asks for payment, gift cards, or bank logins to verify identity. If the letter or a follow-up call does, stop.
What to gather
- The 5071C letter
- The tax return it references, if you filed one
- A prior year tax return
- Photo ID
- Your mobile phone or a mailing address for the online verification code
Write back
The Document cover letter tool builds the response in the order the IRS reads it. Fill it in, review it, print it, and send it with copies of the documents above and the notice stub on top.
Before you send anything
This is general information, not tax advice. Situations differ. Check with your tax advisor before you send anything. Nothing on this page creates a client relationship.