Letter 5591: What It Means and How to Resolve It
Summary:
Letter 5591 is issued by the IRS as part of its Identity Verification program. This notice is sent when the IRS suspects that a taxpayer’s return may be fraudulent or when there is a need for additional verification to process a return. Upon receiving Letter 5591, taxpayers are required to verify their identity online, by phone, or in person at an IRS office to ensure the legitimacy of their tax return and prevent delays in refunds. Responding promptly to this letter is crucial to avoid delays in processing your tax return and any potential penalties.
Receiving a notice from the IRS can feel daunting, especially when it’s regarding potential identity verification issues with your tax return. Letter 5591 is one such communication, sent by the IRS to verify the identity of a taxpayer before processing their return. Whether it’s due to discrepancies in the information provided or suspected identity theft, this letter demands immediate attention. In this article, we’ll explore the purpose of Letter 5591, how it affects taxpayers, and the necessary steps to resolve the issue and avoid any delays in filing your taxes.
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What is IRS Letter 5591?
IRS Letter 5591 is part of the Identity Verification Program, a system implemented by the IRS to prevent fraudulent tax returns and identity theft. The letter is sent to taxpayers when the IRS requires additional confirmation of their identity to process their tax return. This may happen if there are unusual patterns or discrepancies noticed in the tax filing, or if the IRS has received information that raises concerns about the legitimacy of the return.
The purpose of Letter 5591 is to ensure that the tax return filed under your Social Security Number (SSN) is valid and hasn’t been compromised due to identity theft. The letter provides instructions for how you can verify your identity with the IRS through multiple channels, including online, by phone, or in person. It’s essential to address the letter promptly to ensure the smooth processing of your tax return and avoid any delays in receiving your refund.
Why was Letter 5591 issued?
There are several reasons why the IRS might issue Letter 5591, including:
- Suspicion of Identity Theft: If the IRS detects any anomalies in your tax return that may suggest identity theft, they will send this letter to confirm your identity before processing the return.
- Discrepancies in Information: If there are inconsistencies between the information on your tax return and the IRS’s records, this letter may be issued to clarify those discrepancies.
- Unusual Filing Patterns: Uncommon patterns, such as filing from an unexpected location or significant changes in income, may trigger the need for verification.
The goal of this process is to protect taxpayers from fraudulent returns being filed under their name and ensure that any refund goes to the correct person.
Pro tip
The quickest way to resolve Letter 5591 is by using the IRS Identity Verification Service online. Ensure you have all required documents—Social Security Number, prior year’s tax return, and government-issued ID—ready before starting the process.
How does Letter 5591 affect you?
When you receive IRS Letter 5591, your tax return processing is put on hold until you verify your identity. This delay can affect various aspects of your tax situation, including:
- Refund Delays: Your refund will not be issued until you confirm your identity.
- Filing Complications: If you do not respond to the notice promptly, you may experience delays in filing future returns or risk penalties.
- Credit and Financial Issues: If your identity has been compromised, it could impact your credit score and lead to financial complications.
Acting quickly to resolve the matter is the best way to avoid prolonged delays and ensure that your tax return is processed without issues.
Steps to take when you receive IRS Letter 5591
Receiving Letter 5591 means that the IRS needs you to verify your identity before proceeding with your tax return. Here are the steps you should take to resolve the issue:
- Read the Letter Carefully: Ensure that you fully understand why the IRS is requesting identity verification and follow the instructions provided.
- Choose a Method to Verify Your Identity: The IRS allows you to verify your identity in several ways, including:
- Online using the IRS’s Identity Verification Service
- By phone, using the contact number provided in the letter
- In person at an IRS office, if necessary
- Gather Required Documentation: You will need documents like your Social Security card, tax return, and a government-issued ID (driver’s license or passport) to verify your identity.
- Complete the Verification Process: Whether online, by phone, or in person, complete the verification process as soon as possible.
- Follow Up with the IRS: If you experience any issues or delays in processing, reach out to the IRS for additional assistance.
Pro tip
Before submitting your identity verification, carefully review your Social Security Number, name, and tax details. Inaccuracies in these details could trigger further delays or complications in processing your return.
How to respond to IRS Letter 5591
Steps to follow
Responding to Letter 5591 promptly is essential to prevent delays. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the response process:
1. Access the IRS Identity Verification Service: Go to the official IRS website and follow the links to the Identity Verification Service. Ensure that you have all the required documentation, including your Social Security Number (SSN), tax return, and identification.
2. Verify Your Identity by Phone or In Person: If you cannot complete the online verification, use the phone number provided in the letter to verify your identity. Alternatively, you can visit a local IRS office to complete the verification in person.
3. Submit All Necessary Documentation: In certain cases, you may be required to submit photocopies of documents such as your driver’s license, passport, or Social Security card to prove your identity.
4. Wait for Confirmation: Once the IRS verifies your identity, they will process your tax return, and your refund (if applicable) will be released.
Additional ways to handle Letter 5591
In addition to the steps outlined above, here are some other ways you can respond to IRS Letter 5591:
- Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN): If you’re concerned about identity theft, consider enrolling in the IRS’s Identity Protection PIN program. This program gives you a unique PIN each year to protect your identity when filing returns.
- Consult a Tax Professional: If you’re unsure how to proceed, you can always seek help from a certified tax professional who can guide you through the process of verifying your identity.
Further support options for addressing IRS Letter 5591
If you’re having trouble resolving the issue, consider these additional resources:
- Contact a certified tax professional or tax attorney for expert advice.
- Visit the IRS website for detailed instructions and support regarding identity verification.
- Reach out to the IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service if you’re facing unresolved issues or complications.
Professional assistance can be especially helpful if you suspect identity theft or if you’re dealing with complex tax matters.
Pro tip
If you’ve experienced identity theft or want added protection for future filings, enroll in the IRS IP PIN program. This PIN adds a layer of security to ensure only you can file a return using your SSN, preventing fraudulent filings.
Potential penalties or next steps if you don’t respond
Ignoring IRS Letter 5591 can result in several negative consequences, including:
- Refund Delays: Your tax refund will remain unprocessed until your identity is verified.
- Penalties and Interest: If the delay causes late filings, you may incur additional penalties and interest charges.
- Enforcement Actions: Prolonged delays may result in further enforcement actions from the IRS, including wage garnishments or fines.
It’s crucial to respond promptly to avoid these potential penalties.
What are the potential outcomes?
After responding to IRS Letter 5591, several outcomes are possible, depending on your situation:
- Successful Identity Verification: Once your identity is verified, your tax return will be processed, and any refunds due to you will be issued.
- Further Investigation: If the IRS determines there’s a case of identity theft, they may investigate further and take steps to secure your tax account, such as issuing an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN).
- Error Correction: If an error occurred in your tax return, the IRS will work with you to resolve it.
In all cases, prompt action and cooperation with the IRS will help resolve the matter quickly and efficiently.
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Frequently asked questions
Why did I receive IRS Letter 5591?
You received IRS Letter 5591 because the IRS needs to verify your identity before processing your tax return. This can occur due to suspected identity theft, discrepancies in your tax information, or unusual filing patterns.
How can I verify my identity?
You can verify your identity online using the IRS Identity Verification Service, by phone, or in person at an IRS office. You’ll need documents like your Social Security card, a government-issued ID, and your tax return information.
What happens if I ignore the letter?
If you ignore IRS Letter 5591, your tax return will not be processed, and any refunds will be delayed. Ignoring the letter could also result in penalties and enforcement actions if your return remains unresolved for too long.
Can I resolve the issue online?
Yes, in most cases, you can verify your identity online using the IRS’s secure Identity Verification Service. However, if you encounter issues or need additional assistance, you may need to call or visit an IRS office.
Need help understanding other IRS letters and notices? Visit our comprehensive guide to IRS Letters and Notices or search for the document you received in the table below.
| CP01 | The IRS verified your claim of identity theft and will monitor your account. |
| CP01H | The IRS received a tax return with a social security number that belongs to a dead person. |
| CP02H | Money is due on an amended return based on a grant received due to Hurricane Katrina, Rita, or Wilma. |
| CP03C | You received the First-Time Homebuyer Credit for a house you purchased. |
| CP04 | You may be eligible for tax deferment because either you or a spouse served in a combat zone, a qualified contingency operation, or a hazardous duty station during the tax year specified on your notice. |
| CP08 | You may be entitled to additional money due to the Additional Child Tax Credit. |
| CP10 | Your tax return changed due to a miscalculation, and the refund you wanted to apply to an estimated tax payment has changed. |
| CP10A | Your tax return changed due to a miscalculation of the Earned Income Credit, and the refund you wanted to apply to an estimated tax payment has changed. |
| CP11 | You owe money because the IRS amended your return due to a miscalculation. |
| CP11A | Your tax return changed due to a miscalculation of the Earned Income Credit, and the refund you wanted to apply to an estimated tax payment also changed. |
| CP11M | Your tax return changed due to a miscalculation of the Making Work Pay and Government Retiree Credit, and the refund you wanted to apply to an estimated tax payment has changed. |
| CP12 | You are due a bigger refund because the IRS corrected one or more mistakes on your tax return. |
| CP12A | The IRS made changes to correct the Earned Income Credit (EIC) claimed on your tax return. |
| CP12E or CP12F | The IRS corrected a miscalculation on your return. |
| CP12M | The IRS made changes to the computation of the Making Work Pay and/or Government Retiree Credits on your return. |
| CP12R | The IRS made changes to the computation of the Rebate Recovery Credit on your return. |
| CP13 | The IRS made changes to your return due to a miscalculation. There is no refund or amount due. Your balance is zero. |
| CP13A | The IRS made changes to your return due to a miscalculation of the Earned Income Credit. There is no refund or amount due. Your balance is zero. |
| CP13M | The IRS made changes to your return due to a miscalculation of the Making Work Pay credit or the Government Retiree Credit. There is no refund or amount due. Your balance is zero. |
| CP13R | The IRS made changes to your return due to a miscalculation of the Recovery Rebate Credit. There is no refund or amount due. Your balance is zero. |
| CP14 | You owe money on unpaid taxes. |
| CP16 | The IRS made changes to your return due to a miscalculation. The refund you were due was applied to other tax debts. |
| CP21A | You owe money due to the changes you requested that the IRS make on your tax returns. |
| CP21B | You are due a refund due to the changes you requested that the IRS make on your tax returns. The money should arrive within 2 to 3 weeks. |
| CP21C | The IRS made the requested changes to your tax return. You will not receive a refund, and there is no tax due. Your balance is zero. |
| CP21E | As a result of your recent audit, the IRS made changes to your tax return, and you owe money as a result of those changes. |
| CP21I | The IRS made changes to your tax return relating to the Individual Retirement Arrangement (IRA) taxes. You owe money due to the changes. |
| CP22A | The IRS made the changes you requested, and you owe money as a result. |
| CP22E | As a result of your recent audit, the IRS changed your tax return, and you now owe money. |
| CP22I | The IRS made changes to your tax return relating to the Individual Retirement Arrangement (IRA) taxes. You owe money due to the changes. |
| CP23 | The IRS changed your return because there was a difference between the amount of estimated tax payments listed on your tax return and the amount actually posted to your account. You owe taxes due to these changes. |
| CP24 | The IRS changed your return because there was a difference between the amount of estimated tax payments listed on your tax return and the amount actually posted to your account. This resulted in an overpayment of estimated taxes. |
| CP24E | The IRS changed your return because there was a difference between the amount of estimated tax payments listed on your tax return and the amount actually posted to your account. This resulted in an overpayment of estimated taxes. |
| CP25 | The IRS changed your return because there was a difference between the amount of estimated tax payments listed on your tax return and the amount actually posted to your account. You are not due a refund, nor do you owe any money. Your balance is zero. |
| CP31 | You need to update your address because your refund check was returned to the IRS. |
| CP45 | The IRS was unable to apply your overpayment to your estimated tax as you requested. |
| CP49 | The IRS used all or part of your refund to pay a tax debt. |
| CP53 | Your refund check will be sent by mail because the IRS can’t provide your refund through direct deposit. |
| CP57 | The bank declined your payment, so the IRS was unable to draft funds from your bank account. |
| CP71 | A reminder of the amount you owe in tax, penalty, and interest. |
| CP71A | A reminder of the amount you owe in tax, penalty, and interest. |
| CP71C | A reminder of the amount you owe in tax, penalty, and interest. |
| CP71D | A reminder of the amount you owe in tax, penalty, and interest. |
| CP88 | The IRS is holding your refund because you haven't filed one or more tax returns, and it believes you will owe tax. |
| CP90 | The IRS is notifying you of its intent to levy certain assets for unpaid taxes. You have the right to dispute the levy in a Collection Due Process hearing. |
| CP91 | The IRS will levy up to 15% of your social security benefits for unpaid taxes. |
| CP120 | The IRS needs documentation of your tax-exempt status. |
| CP120A | Your organization’s tax-exempt status has been revoked because it failed to file a Form 990 series return for three consecutive years. |
| CP130 | You may no longer need to pay the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) because your tax return filing requirements changed. |
| CP152 | The IRS received your return. |
| CP153 | The IRS will send your refund by mail because your direct deposit did not go through. |
| CP161 | You have an unpaid balance due to the IRS. |
| CP166 | Your monthly payment to the IRS did not go through due to insufficient funds in your bank account. |
| CP178 | You may no longer owe excise tax because your tax return filing requirements changed. |
| CP231 | You need to update your address because your refund was returned to the IRS. |
| CP259 | You did not file the business tax return identified in the notice. |
| CP259A | You should have filed these forms but did not – Form 990/990-EZ, Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax, or Form 990-N (e-Postcard). |
| CP259B | The IRS requires you to file these forms but did not – Form 990-PF, Return of Private Foundation or Section 4947(a)(1) Nonexempt Charitable Trust Treated as a Private Foundation. |
| CP259C | The IRS believes that you are a private foundation, but did not file the required Form 990-PF, Return of Private Foundation or Section 4947(a)(1) Nonexempt Charitable Trust Treated as a Private Foundation. |
| CP259D | You must file this form, but you did not – Form 990-T, Exempt Organization Business Income Tax Return. |
| CP259E | You should have filed this form, but you did not – Form 990-N (e-Postcard) or Form 990/990-EZ, Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax. |
| CP259F | The IRS requires you to file this form but did not – Form 5227, Split-Interest Trust Information Return. |
| CP259G | The IRS requires you to file this form, but you didn’t – Form 1120-POL, U.S. Income Tax Return for Certain Political Organizations. |
| CP259H | As a tax-exempt political organization, you must file this form, but you did not – Form 990/990-EZ, Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax. |
| CP276A | You submitted your tax liability schedule incorrectly. The IRS typically charges a Federal Tax Deposit (FTD) penalty for this but did not this time. |
| CP276B | The IRS did not receive the correct amount of tax deposits. It normally charges a Federal Tax Deposit (FTD) penalty but did not this time. |
| CP297 | The IRS is notifying you of its intent to levy certain assets for unpaid taxes. You have the right to dispute the levy at a Collection Due Process hearing. |
| CP297A | The IRS has levied your assets for unpaid taxes. You have the right to dispute the levy at a Collection Due Process hearing. |
| CP298 | The IRS notifying you of its intent to levy up to 15% of your social security benefits for unpaid taxes. |
| CP501 | You have a balance due on one of your tax accounts. |
| CP503 | You have an unpaid balance on one of your accounts, and the IRS has not heard from you. |
| CP504 | You have an unpaid amount due on your account. If you do not pay immediately, the IRS will levy your state income tax refund to apply it to the amount you owe. |
| CP504B | You have an unpaid amount due on your account. If you do not pay immediately, the IRS will levy certain property or rights to property to apply it to the amount you owe. |
| CP521 | A reminder that you have an installment agreement payment due. |
| CP523 | You have defaulted on your payment agreement. Therefore the IRS is terminating the agreement and will levy your assets. |
| CP601 | Usted tiene un saldo pendiente de pago (dinero que le debe al IRS) en una de sus cuentas contributivas. |
| CP603 | No hemos recibido respuesta de parte de usted y todavía tiene un saldo sin pagar en una de sus cuentas contributivas. |
| CP604 | Usted tiene un saldo sin pagar en su cuenta. De no pagar esta cantidad inmediatemente, el IRS embargará cualquier reembolso de impuestos estatales al que tenga derecho y aplicarlo al pago de su deuda. |
| CP604B | Usted tiene un saldo sin pagar en su cuenta. De no pagar esta cantidad inmediatemente, el IRS embargará ciertas propiedades o derechos de propiedad y lo aplicará al pago de su deuda. |
| CP621 | Este aviso es para notificarle que usted tiene un plan de pagos a plazos vencido. Por favor, envíe el pago inmediatamente. |
| CP623 | Este aviso es para informarle nuestra intención de cancelar su plan de pagos a plazos y confiscar (embargar) sus bienes. Usted incumplió en su acuerdo. |
| CP711 | Nosotros realizamos cambios a su planilla debido a que entendemos que hubo un cálculo erróneo. Como resultado de estos cambios, usted adeuda dinero por sus contribuciones. |
| CP721 | Hicimos el(los) cambio(s) que usted solicitó a su declaración de impuestos para el año tributario que aparece en su aviso. Como resultado de éste(estos) cambio(s) usted debe dinero en sus impuestos. |
| CP722 | Hicimos el(los) cambio(s) que usted solicitó a su declaración de impuestos para el año tributario que aparece en su aviso. Como resultado de éste(estos) cambio(s) usted debe dinero en sus impuestos. |
| CP771 | Usted recibió este aviso para recordarle sobre la cantidad que adeuda en contribuciones, multas e intereses. |
| CP772 | Usted recibió este aviso para recordarle sobre la cantidad que adeuda en contribuciones, multas e intereses. |
| CP773 | Usted recibió este aviso para recordarle sobre la cantidad que adeuda en contribuciones, multas e intereses. |
| CP774 | Usted recibió este aviso para recordarle sobre la cantidad que adeuda en contribuciones, multas e intereses. |
| CP959 | Usted no radicó su planilla de contribución de negocios identificada en este aviso. |
| CP2000 | The income or payment information on file doesn’t match your tax return. The discrepancy may result in an increase or decrease in your tax due. |
| CP3219A | The IRS has received information that is different from what you reported on your tax return. This may result in an increase or decrease in your tax. |
| CP3219N | The IRS didn’t receive your tax return, so it calculated your return based on the information received from employers, financial institutions, and others. If you want to challenge the proposed tax, you have 90 days from the date of this notice. If you are outside the country, you have 150 days. |
| Letter 0012C | The IRS needs additional information to process your tax return. |
| Letter 0484C | The IRS wants a completed |
| Letter 0525 | Updates you on proposed changes after an IRS examination. Any changes are explained and details the refund due or taxes owed. |
| Letter 531 | IRS Notice of Deficiency. The information the IRS received about you was different from what you reported on your return. |
| Letter 0668D(LP 68) | The IRS released their levy. |
| Letter 0549C | Your tax bill was paid. |
| Letter 0681C | The IRS accepted your payment proposal. However, this is not a formal Installment Agreement. |
| Letter 0757C | You did not adhere to the terms of your Installment Agreement. |
| Letter LT 11 | The IRS plans to seize your property or rights to property. |
| Letter 1058 | The IRS has not received your payment. It plans to seize your property or rights to property. |
| Letter 1615 (LT 18) | You must respond to the IRS within 10 days of this notice regarding past due tax returns. |
| Letter 1737 (LT 27) | Complete and sign Form 433F, Collection Information Statement. |
| Letter 1961C | Your application for a Direct Debit Installment Agreement was declined. It explains why and what you need to do to qualify. |
| Letter 1962C | Your application for a |
| Letter 2050 (LT 16) | The IRS is trying to collect unpaid taxes from you from returns that have been filed or from returns that have not been filed. |
| Letter 2257C | The IRS is providing the payoff amount that you requested. |
| Letter 226-J | An IRS letter to large employers notifying them that they may be liable for an Employer Shared Responsibility Payment (ESRP). |
| Letter 2271C | A request for an Installment Agreement has been approved. It explains the fees and how to qualify for a Low Income Fee Reduction. The letter may also request missing information. |
| Letter 2272C | An IRS letter explaining why your request to pay the balance due in installments was declined. |
| Letter 2273C | A confirmation letter of your request to pay the balance due in installments. It contained the amount to pay, fees charged, and where to send payment. Instructions on how to apply for the Low Income Fee Reduction included. |
| Letter 2318C | A response to a request to pay taxes due to payroll deductions. It also explains the fees that are charged. |
| Letter 2357C | The IRS is admitting that it did not send you the balance due notices that it should have. |
| Letter 2603C | The IRS accepted your installment agreement. The IRS will file a Notice of Federal Tax Lien on your personal property. |
| Letter 2604C | The IRS has accepted your request for installment payments. This IRS letter provides the monthly payment, the address where to send it, and the fees charged. The letter also provides instructions on how to apply for the Low Income Fee Reduction. |
| Letter 2761C | The IRS is requesting your combat zone service dates to ensure that it provides you with the special provisions and protection of the combat zone deferment. Copies of military orders or other documentation to support your time served may be requested. Civilians working in support of the Armed Forces may be required to provide a Letter of Authorization or a letter from their employer. |
| Letter 2789C | An annual reminder notice, as required by law, of the balance due to the IRS. It explains that penalties and interest continue to accrue until the balance is fully paid. |
| Letter 2840C | Confirms your Installment Agreement request and includes the payment amount and due date. This IRS letter explains the fees charged for paying monthly and explains how to apply for the Low Income Fee Reduction (if you qualify). |
| Letter 3030C | Provides an explanation of the tax, penalty, and interest still due on your account. |
| Letter 3127C | A confirmation of your request to make a change to your Installment Agreement. This IRS letter explains the fees for the change. Changes can be to the payment amount or due date, or it can include additional liabilities. |
| Letter 3174 | A reminder of taxes due after the IRS has sent a Notice of Intent to Levy. |
| Letter 3217C | The IRS has accepted your request to pay the balance in installments. This IRS letter provides your payment amount, the due date, and fees charged. The letter also provides instructions on applying for the Low Income Fee Reduction (if you qualify). |
| Letter 3228 (LT 39) | A request to pay the balance due within 10 days using the envelope provided. |
| Letter 3500 | The IRS has received your documents, and it needs additional time to review them. |
| Letter 3572 | Your Federal Income Tax Return has been selected for examination. The IRS auditor requests that you call to schedule an audit appointment. |
| Letter 4883C | The IRS received your federal income tax return but needs more information to verify your identity in order to process your tax return accurately. |
| Letter 4903 (LT 26) | You must file your tax returns immediately. The IRS has previously contacted you, but it did not receive a response. |
| Letter LP 47 | The IRS is trying to locate the person identified in the letter and is requesting that you provide their new address. |
| Letter LP 59 | The IRS has not received a response to the notice of levy it previously sent. |
| Audit Letter 2205 | The IRS manages audits either by mail or through an in-person interview to review your records. The interview may be at an IRS office (office audit) or the taxpayer’s home, place of business, or accountant’s office (field audit). |
| Letter 915 | You recently underwent an audit, and the IRS informs you that you now owe taxes. |
Key takeaways
- IRS Letter 5591 is issued to verify your identity before processing your tax return.
- You can verify your identity online, by phone, or in person at an IRS office.
- Failure to respond promptly could result in delays, penalties, or enforcement actions.
- If you’re concerned about identity theft, consider enrolling in the IRS’s Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) program for added security.
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