IRS Letter 4883C includes a timeframe for completing identity verification, and responding promptly is essential to avoid extended delays in tax return processing. While the letter does not always specify a strict cutoff date, the IRS expects taxpayers to complete verification as soon as possible.
How Long You Have to Respond
After receiving IRS Letter 4883C, taxpayers should begin the identity verification process without delay. The IRS does not continue processing the tax return or issue any refund until verification is successfully completed, regardless of how long the letter has been outstanding.
What Happens If You Respond Late
Delaying identity verification does not result in immediate penalties, but it can significantly postpone tax return processing and refund issuance. In some cases, prolonged delays may require additional IRS follow-up before processing can resume.
Does IRS Letter 4883C Expire
IRS Letter 4883C does not typically expire in the traditional sense, but unresolved verification requests keep the tax return in a pending status. The longer verification is delayed, the longer processing remains paused.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Completing identity verification promptly helps minimize processing delays and allows the IRS to resume normal handling of the return. Waiting to respond can create backlogs that extend the time before a refund is issued.
What to Do If the Deadline Has Passed
If significant time has passed since receiving IRS Letter 4883C and verification has not been completed, the taxpayer should follow the verification instructions provided in the letter. Completing verification remains necessary even if the letter is no longer recent.
Related Guidance
This page explains timing considerations related to IRS Letter 4883C. For instructions on completing identity verification, see how to verify your identity.
To understand the consequences of not responding, review what happens if you ignore IRS Letter 4883C.
To return to the main overview of the letter and response process, visit the guidance hub.
IRS Letter 4883C: what it means and how to respond
For the official description of the notice and its role within the tax system, refer to the document overview.
IRS Letter 4883C. Potential Identity Theft During Original Processing