If you received IRS Letter 4883C, the Internal Revenue Service is asking you to verify your identity before continuing to process your tax return. This letter is sent as a protective measure when the IRS cannot confidently confirm that a return was filed by the rightful taxpayer.
What IRS Letter 4883C Is
IRS Letter 4883C is an official IRS notice issued during tax return processing when there is a potential risk of identity theft. It does not mean that fraud has been confirmed and does not accuse the taxpayer of wrongdoing. A more detailed explanation of the notice itself is available in the section explaining what IRS Letter 4883C is.
Why the IRS Sent This Letter
The IRS sends Letter 4883C when certain indicators appear, such as unusual filing patterns or information that cannot be matched with IRS records. These situations are explained in more detail in the overview of why the IRS sent Letter 4883C.
What the IRS Is Asking You to Do
The letter instructs the taxpayer to complete an identity verification process using the methods described in the notice. A step-by-step explanation of the verification process is provided in the guide on how to verify your identity.
How Identity Verification Works
Identity verification may be completed using different methods depending on the taxpayer’s situation. In some cases, verification can be completed online, while in others it must be completed by phone. The differences between these options are explained in online vs phone identity verification.
Deadlines and Processing Impact
IRS Letter 4883C includes a timeframe for completing identity verification. Missing the response window can significantly delay tax return processing and refunds. Timing requirements and consequences are covered in detail in the section on the IRS Letter 4883C response deadline.
What Happens If You Do Not Respond
Ignoring IRS Letter 4883C does not make the issue go away. The IRS will not continue processing the return, and refunds may be delayed indefinitely. A full explanation of possible outcomes is provided in what happens if you ignore the letter.
What Happens After Identity Verification
After identity verification is completed and accepted, the IRS resumes normal processing of the tax return. Typical timelines and next steps are explained in what happens after identity verification.
Official Document Reference
This page explains how IRS Letter 4883C is handled in practice. For the official description of the notice and its role within the tax system, see IRS Letter 4883C. Potential Identity Theft During Original Processing.