How to Mail IRS Identity Verification Documents (2025)
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Send IRS Documents SecurelyReceived an IRS identity verification letter (like Letter 5071C or 4883C) asking you to verify your identity? The IRS may request identity verification if they suspect fraud, need to confirm your return is legitimate, or if you're reporting identity theft. This guide explains how to mail IRS identity verification documents safely, where to mail Form 14039 (the IRS identity theft affidavit), and how to protect your sensitive information.
Important: Verify the IRS Letter First
Before sending any documents, make sure the letter is legitimate:
- • The IRS will never email or text asking for identity documents
- • Check the notice number (e.g., Letter 5071C, 4883C, 5747C)
- • Call the IRS directly at the number on their website (not the letter) to verify
- • Scammers send fake IRS letters—always verify before responding
Table of Contents
Why the IRS Requests Identity Verification
The IRS may request identity verification for several reasons:
Tax Return Verification
- • Unusual filing pattern detected
- • Multiple returns filed under your SSN
- • Income doesn't match W-2/1099 records
- • First-time filing from a new location
Identity Theft
- • Someone filed a return using your SSN
- • You reported identity theft to the IRS
- • IRS detected suspicious activity
- • You requested an Identity Protection PIN
Common IRS Identity Verification Letters
Letter 5071C
What it means: The IRS needs to verify your identity before processing your return. Usually can be resolved online at IRS.gov/verify or by calling the number on the letter. Mail option available if other methods don't work.
Letter 4883C
What it means: The IRS received a return with your SSN and needs you to verify your identity. You must call the IRS to complete verification—cannot be done online.
Letter 5747C
What it means: Often requires in-person verification at a Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC). Follow the instructions on your specific letter for whether mail or other options are allowed.
CP01A Notice
What it means: The IRS is assigning you an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) because of suspected identity theft. Contains your new IP PIN for future returns.
Documents You'll Need
The IRS may request various documents depending on the type of verification. Always send copies, never originals.
Commonly Requested Documents
- • Government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport)
- • Social Security card (or W-2 showing full SSN)
- • Utility bill with current address (within 3 months)
- • Bank statement showing name and address
- • Previous year's tax return (if requested)
- • W-2 or 1099 from the tax year in question
For Identity Theft Cases (Form 14039)
- • Completed Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit)
- • Copy of government-issued photo ID
- • Copy of Social Security card (or alternative SSN proof)
- • Police report (if filed) or FTC Identity Theft Report
- • Any IRS notices received about the fraudulent return
Never Send These
- • Original documents (send copies only)
- • Credit card numbers
- • PIN numbers or passwords
- • Bank account numbers (unless specifically requested)
Form 14039: Identity Theft Affidavit
Form 14039 is the official IRS form for reporting tax-related identity theft. File this form if someone else filed a return using your Social Security number or if you're a victim of a data breach.
When to File Form 14039
- • Someone filed a tax return using your SSN
- • Your e-file was rejected because a return was already filed
- • You received IRS notice about a return you didn't file
- • You received a W-2 or 1099 from an employer you never worked for
- • IRS records show income you didn't earn
How to Complete Form 14039
Section A: Reason for Filing
Check the appropriate box explaining why you're filing (e.g., "Someone filed a tax return using my SSN")
Section B: Your Information
Name, current address, SSN, date of birth, and phone number
Section C: Tax Year Information
List the tax year(s) affected by the identity theft
Section D: Documentation
Indicate what supporting documents you're including
Sign and Date
The form must be signed to be valid
How to Mail Identity Documents Safely
Follow these steps to mail identity verification documents to the IRS safely and protect your sensitive information in transit.
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
- • Make clear, legible copies of all documents (not originals)
- • Include a cover letter referencing the IRS notice number
- • Write your SSN and the tax year on each page
- • Keep copies of everything you send
Step 2: Organize Your Package
- • Place cover letter on top
- • Include the IRS letter/notice you received
- • Attach Form 14039 (if applicable)
- • Add copies of supporting documents
- • Use paper clips (no staples)
Step 3: Choose Secure Mailing
- • Certified Mail with Return Receipt (recommended) - provides tracking and proof of delivery
- • Add Restricted Delivery (optional) - limits who can sign for the mail, based on USPS rules
- • Use a security envelope to prevent contents from showing
- • Consider Priority Mail for faster delivery
Step 4: Keep Records
- • Save copies of everything you mailed
- • Keep your certified mail receipt (PS Form 3800)
- • Save the return receipt when it arrives (learn how to track certified mail)
- • Document the date you mailed everything
Where to Mail Identity Documents
Always use the address shown on your IRS letter. Different letters have different response addresses. Here are common addresses for identity-related correspondence:
Where to Mail Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit)
If you're filing Form 14039 separately from a tax return and not responding to a specific IRS notice, the IRS instructions list this address:
Internal Revenue Service
P.O. Box 9039
Andover, MA 01810-0939
If you're attaching Form 14039 to your tax return, mail it to the address for your return instead. Always confirm the current address at IRS.gov before mailing, as addresses can change.
Responding to an IRS Letter
Use the address printed on your specific IRS letter. Common addresses include:
- • Identity Protection Specialized Unit addresses vary by letter
- • The address on your letter supersedes any general address
- • If no address is shown, call the IRS to confirm before mailing
Important: Verify Addresses
IRS addresses change periodically. Always verify the current address at IRS.gov or by calling 1-800-829-1040 before mailing sensitive documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents does the IRS accept for identity verification?
The IRS typically requests copies of government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport), Social Security card, and sometimes utility bills or bank statements showing your address. The specific documents depend on which IRS letter you received.
Should I mail original documents to the IRS?
No, never mail original documents to the IRS. Always send copies (photocopies) of your identification documents. The IRS specifically requests copies, and originals may not be returned if lost in processing.
How should I mail sensitive identity documents to the IRS?
Use USPS Certified Mail with Return Receipt for identity documents. This provides tracking, proof of delivery, and a secure chain of custody. Some people also add Restricted Delivery to ensure only an IRS employee can sign for it.
How long does IRS identity verification take?
Identity verification processing typically takes 30 to 120 days, depending on the complexity and IRS workload. Identity theft cases can take 180 days or longer. You can check status by calling the IRS or checking your IRS online account.
What if I can't verify my identity online?
If online verification fails, you can call the IRS at the number on your letter, visit a Taxpayer Assistance Center in person, or mail the required documents. Mail is often the fallback option when other methods don't work.
Will identity theft delay my refund?
Yes, if someone filed a fraudulent return using your SSN, your legitimate return will be delayed while the IRS investigates. This can take 6-12 months in some cases. The IRS will eventually issue your refund after confirming your identity.
Mail Your IRS Identity Documents Securely
Upload your identity verification documents and we'll send them via Certified Mail with Return Receipt—next-business-day mailing for orders by 8 PM ET.
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