Taxpayers and Practitioners Must Verify Identities When Calling the IRS

In a recent News Release, the IRS reminded taxpayers and tax practitioners that they will be asked to verify their identities when calling the IRS. Taxpayers should have the following information ready: (1) Social Security Numbers (SSNs) and birth dates of those listed on the return; (2) an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if obtained in lieu of an SSN; (3) filing status; (4) the prior-year tax return; (5) a copy of the tax return in question; and (6) any IRS letters or notices. Before calling the IRS about a client, practitioners should have the following information handy: (1) verbal or written authorization from the client to discuss the account; (2) the ability to verify the client's name, SSN/ITIN, tax period, and forms filed; (3) a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN); and (4) a completed and signed Form 8821 or Form 2848. News Release IR 2018-28.