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Freedom251 › Blog › identity verification

How to Prepare for an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center Appointment

By Freedom251 Team · · 3 min read

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Before visiting an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC), confirm that the office handles your issue and book an appointment. Bring two original forms of identification, including a current government-issued photo ID, plus your taxpayer identification number and the tax records tied to your question. If the IRS sent you a letter, use its checklist: notice-based appointments can require specific documents or your in-person attendance.

1. Confirm that you need an in-person appointment

Many tax issues can be handled online or by phone, and TAC services vary by location. Use the IRS local-office finder to search by ZIP code and radius, check the office’s listed services and directions, and find its appointment contact. Call ahead to schedule and verify that the location can handle your particular request.

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The IRS states in Publication 15-A (2026): “All TACs now provide service by appointment, so you’ll know in advance that you can get the service you need without long wait times.”

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2. Gather identification and tax records

Bring two original forms of identification

Bring two original IDs, including one current government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, state identification card, or passport. The IRS also lists documents such as a Social Security card, car title, voter registration card, mortgage statement, lease, utility bill, birth certificate, and certain school records as examples of other identification. A tribal membership card may be additional ID, but it is not a substitute for a driver’s license or passport.

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Bring records related to the issue

  • Your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
  • The tax return for the year in question, if you filed one.
  • Supporting documents relevant to your question, such as income records including Forms W-2 or 1099.
  • Any IRS notice or letter about the matter, along with the records or documents it requests.

Use the IRS’s appointment preparation guidance as a general checklist, but let any instructions in your letter take priority.

3. Follow the checklist for your specific appointment

If your appointment is for Letter 5747C identity verification

If you filed the return referenced in Letter 5747C, call the number on the letter to schedule. Bring the letter, the referenced Form 1040-series return, relevant supporting documents, and the required identity records. Forms W-2 and 1099 are not tax returns. An authorized representative may accompany or represent you, but the IRS requires you to attend so it can authenticate your identity. See the IRS’s identity and tax return verification instructions.

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If your appointment is for Letter 6167C

Bring Letter 6167C, the return it references, a prior-year return, and supporting records for the returns at issue. Follow the letter’s instructions and check the IRS’s identity-verification guidance if anything is unclear.

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If you are applying for or renewing an ITIN

Some TACs review original identity and foreign-status documents, or copies certified by the issuing agency. The IRS says it returns these documents at the end of the appointment. Confirm that the office offers ITIN document review and arrange the appointment through the IRS appointment line; not every TAC necessarily offers the service. The IRS’s ITIN guidance also describes language interpretation and sign-language interpretation arrangements for deaf or hard-of-hearing visitors. Confirm current arrangements when scheduling.

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4. Plan for arrival and office security

  • Arrive on time and check in. The IRS says your appointment may be canceled if you arrive more than 15 minutes late without checking in.
  • Do not bring food or drinks, cameras, or weapons, and silence your phone.
  • If you are ill, reschedule rather than visiting.
  • Check the office’s directions and any appointment-specific instructions before you leave.
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5. Use a simple packing check

  • Two original forms of ID, including current government-issued photo identification.
  • Your SSN or ITIN.
  • The relevant tax return or returns and supporting records.
  • The IRS notice or letter, if applicable, and every document it specifically requests.
  • Any additional documents needed for your appointment type, such as ITIN identity and foreign-status records.

Because office services and appointment arrangements can change, recheck the IRS office finder and your own notice close to the appointment.

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