Getting a letter from the IRS can be stressful, especially when it’s labeled CP5071. If you recently opened your mailbox and saw this notice, don’t panic—you’re not alone, and there’s a clear path forward. This article explains exactly what IRS Notice CP5071 means, why you received it, and what steps you should take immediately to verify your identity and protect your tax refund.
Whether you’re worried about identity theft or simply want to make sure your tax refund isn’t delayed, this guide is here to help. It’s written in plain language, backed by IRS best practices, and includes helpful links to trusted resources like the IRS identity verification tool.
Have you ever received a notice from the IRS and weren’t sure what to do next? You’re not alone. Many taxpayers have the same experience—and the good news is, most issues can be resolved quickly if you know the steps.
What Is IRS Notice CP5071?
IRS Notice CP5071 is an official letter sent by the Internal Revenue Service to confirm that you are the person who filed a recent federal tax return. It’s typically issued when the IRS detects something unusual about your return, such as:
- A mismatch in Social Security or personal information
- Unusual income patterns
- Multiple tax returns filed under your SSN
- Potential signs of identity theft
The goal is simple: to protect you and your refund by confirming that the tax return they received was actually submitted by you.
Why Did You Receive CP5071?
You might have received CP5071 for several reasons, including:
- You moved recently and the IRS couldn’t verify your new address
- Your return was filed from a different state or IP address
- Someone else tried to file a return using your identity
Even if you filed your taxes correctly, small inconsistencies can trigger the notice. It’s not an accusation—it’s a verification step.
What NOT to Do
Do NOT ignore the CP5071 notice. Ignoring it can lead to:
- Delayed tax refunds
- IRS processing hold on your return
- Possible rejection of your tax filing
Acting quickly is key to minimizing issues.
What You Should Do Right Now
Here’s a step-by-step checklist of how to respond to IRS Notice CP5071:
1. Locate the Letter and Personal Info
You’ll need the following before verifying:
- IRS CP5071 notice itself
- Your most recent tax return (Form 1040)
- Previous year’s return, if available
- Your Social Security Number (SSN)
2. Go to the IRS Identity Verification Website
Visit the official IRS verification page here:
https://www.idverify.irs.gov
Once there, follow the instructions to verify your identity securely.
3. Verify Online or by Phone
- Online: Use the IDVerify website (fastest option)
- By Phone: Call the IRS number listed on the CP5071 letter
Pro Tip: Never call a number not listed directly on the IRS letter. There are many tax scams pretending to be the IRS.
4. Wait for Processing
After verification, the IRS will continue processing your return. This can take up to 9 weeks. You can check the status at Where’s My Refund.
What If You Didn’t File the Return?
If the CP5071 notice refers to a return you didn’t file, call the IRS immediately. This could mean someone is committing identity theft. The IRS will help you:
- Flag your account for fraud
- Begin an identity theft affidavit process
- Stop further misuse of your Social Security Number
You may also need to complete Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit.
How to Protect Yourself in the Future
After dealing with CP5071, take steps to protect your identity:
- Request an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) from the IRS
- Use trusted tax software or a certified tax preparer
- Enable alerts on your credit profile (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion)
- Shred documents with personal or financial data
📌 Final Thoughts
Getting IRS Notice CP5071 might feel scary at first—but it’s actually a good thing. It means the IRS is actively protecting your identity. By following the steps in this guide, you can verify your information quickly, avoid delays, and get your refund processed smoothly.
Need Help With Back Taxes?
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