able to create an IRS account
The new platform makes it easier for more Americans, including low-income and minorities, to access their tax information. By March 11, facial recognition data will be automatically deleted.
If information is power, then many taxpayers are powerless. Millions of people have filed federal returns that are stuck in a massive backlog, delaying refunds and resulting in automatic collection notices that may or may not be warranted. They check "Where's my refund?" and "Where's my modified refund?" only to find a bureaucratically written language that tells them nothing. What the IRS Delay Means for You The agency's online account system, as I reported last year, is a mess. Fewer than half of people who tried to set up an account online with the Internal Revenue Service succeeded, according to Erin M. Collins, the National Taxpayer Advocate. To help improve that access record and improve security when setting up an account, the agency brought in the private company ID.me to sign people up. The launch was immediately criticized because it required taxpayers to scan their faces to create an ID.me IRS account. The IRS dropped that facial recognition requirement, while moving ahead with the ID.me authentication platform. The twist is causing some confusion. So here's what you need to know if you have a legacy IRS account or need to create a new one with ID.me. Eight scary automated IRS notices that are being suspended, for now
WHAT TO KNOW
Do I have to set up an online account to file my federal income tax return?
What do I have to do to prove my identity with ID.me?
Can I still use facial recognition for verification?
What will happen to the facial recognition data I already submitted?
How long does it take for people to get a virtual interview?
Is the new verification system better?
¿Do I have to set up an online account to file my federal income tax return?
back to menuIt is important to note that you do not need to set up an IRS account with the old or new authentication system to file your federal return. What setting up an account will do is give you access to your payment history or data from your most recently filed tax return, including your adjusted gross income.
You can view information about stimulus payments received or child tax credit advance payments.
What do I have to do to prove my identity with ID.me?
back to menuThere are two ways to prove your identity. You can use an automated self-service system using facial recognition. You'll need an email address, Social Security number, and photo identification, such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID. You also need a mobile phone with a camera or a computer with a webcam to take a selfie.