Introduction

If you’ve gotten a 5071C letter from the IRS for Form 2290, you may be confused about its meaning and relevance. The letter is sent when the IRS has to confirm that your identity is valid for processing your Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) return. In the presented guide, we will show the reason behind this letter, discuss the steps to take, and do the follow-ups after verification.

What Is the 5071C Letter?

The IRS 5071C letter is a request you get from the IRS that wants you to confirm your identity. This letter is sent when there is some questionable activity or there are certain discrepancies in your tax return. If you have filed Form 2290 for your Heavy Highway Vehicle, but the IRS is not sure if it was you who filed it, this letter will be sent to you.

Why Did You Receive 5071C Letter?

There are many permutations and combinations of reasons as to why you would have received the 5071C letter.

• Unusual Filing Activity: If you are attempting to submit Form 2290 for the very first time, or you happen to be the owner of a new EIN (Employer Identification Number), there is a high possibility the IRS would want to verify your return.
• Discrepancy with Data: The summed-up mismatch might be due to the EIN, business, or any other detail not matching the IRS data, for which they may need authentication.
• Suspicion of Fraudulent Activity: This letter is issued by the IRS to validate any fraudulent attempts to file a business identifying Form 2290 belonging to you.

Responding to the 5071C Letter Instructions

To get your identity fully verified, take some of the following instructions:

Document Collection

In order to respond, make sure you have done the preparations beforehand:

• The 5071C letter you received from the Internal Revenue Service
• Your EIN along with the business name comprises its details
• Copy of the Form 2290 that you submitted
• The most recent filed tax return that you need verification for by other means

Go to the IRS Identity Verification Webpage

The most efficient method of authenticating your identity will be through IRS Identity Verification Service, which can be done through their site (https://www.irs.gov/verifyreturn). Follow the troubleshooting guidelines on screen and put in the requested information.

Phone Call to IRS

In case you cannot authenticate through the website, you can alternatively reach out to the number stated in your 5071C letter. Make sure you are able to reply to questions concerning your tax return as well as details about the business.

Await Confirmation

After passing the identity verification step, the IRS will refund your Form 2290 return. This period can range anywhere from a few days to weeks depending on the workflow they have.

What Happens After Verification?

After confirming your identity:

• The IRS will continue to process your Form 2290.
• You will receive your stamped Schedule 1 to serve as your proof of payment for the HVUT, if the filing was indeed legitimate.
• If the filing was performed in a fraudulent manner, the IRS shall utilize their investigatory power to take requisite steps to secure your business identity.

How to Avoid Future Identity Verification Issues

To not have to endure another 5071C letter, you can do the following:

• Make sure your EIN and business details are rectified in accordance to the records the IRS has.
• Make use of trusted e-filing providers when filing Form 2290.
• Ensure that your business tax documents are current, and safe.
• Keep an eye on all IRS notices and be ready to promptly act, if any unusual communication lands in your hands.

Although receiving a Form 2290 Identity Verification Letter (5071C) may appear alarming, it is an IRS measure designed to mitigate identity theft attempts. Your heavy vehicle use tax return will be adjudicated on time if you act timely and precisely. For those who require further assistance, a tax expert would be able to walk you through the important steps of verification.

Note: For more information, visit IRS website