I had the same reservations regarding the possibility of this being a scam letter and 800 number. And like the person above, I could not find a reference to this 800 number on the IRS.gov web site.

So I called the regular IRS customer line 800 829 104 (see here: https://www.irs.gov/help/telephone-assistance).

The automated system is pretty convoluted, but following the instructions below I was able to talk to a human (see a related chat on the intuit site: https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/taxes/discussion/i-got-a-letter-from-irs-[product key removed]r-to-call-to-confirm-my-identity-is-this-a-legitimate/00/558329)

The agent confirmed [phone number removed] is the number to call for letter 4883c. Why they won't post this number on the irs web is a little baffling, but it is what it is.

Chris1997

Level 2

The best way to verify that the number is official (mine was) is to Google:

site:irs.gov "[phone number removed]"

(Place the phone number given inside quotes.)

In my case, it turned up dozens of pages on the IRS site mentioning this number as official.

Totally agree with everyone else that the IRS isn't doing anyone any favors here by sending a letter that could so easily be a phishing attempt and then not helping you to at least verify the legitimacy of the number before calling to give out sensitive info. On top of that, when you do call the number, you're treated to a computer-synthesized voice that does little to allay the concern.

But the #1 way I knew this wasn't a scam was because, when I called that number, they made me hold for half an hour before someone picked up. And then it disconnected me. Yep, it's the IRS alright...

lacjwyant

Level 2

We received a letter supposedly from IRS taxpayer advocates Services wanting me to verify my identity

CassLO

Level 11

@lacjwyant Please see the information below regarding the verification identity letter:

Understanding Your 4883C Letter

After successful verification, it takes about 6 weeks to complete processing.

Tips for Handling Identity Verification Requests From the IRS

To contact the IRS directly, please see the link below:

How do I contact the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)?

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pjwdbw818307

Level 2

I recieved the letter 5071C from the IRS. In order to be identified on line you have to have a charge card and enter last 4 digits besides your tax info.... debit cards will not work. So I had to make copies of every turbo tax paper and a copy of the letter and send them to Texas. This was on Feb 26th. Even thou my taxes were accepted. It still says processing for $163. I gave them every information possible about me. The lady was not very nice. To this day I still have not heard anything. I have already recieved my State Refund to my checking account. I do not trust the IRS. Years ago before Direct Deposit was available my tax check was stolen. My ex took it and him and his new girl cashed it. It was for $4000. Do you believe it took the IRS a year before they issued me a new check. And they did not even file charges against the crooks. Everything is for the crooks. The innocent ones get crapped on. Turbo Tax does an Amazing job. If my taxes weren't mine then how in the world did I get my W2s and how did I receive the letter from the IRS. IDIOTS!!

Gmba

Level 2

I just received the same letter, I'm always skeptical when they start asking for payment or bank info! Sound sketchy but the letter looks official but, I'll be proceeding with caution!

RobertSF

Level 2

You can see this number is published on two pages of the irs.gov website:

asagewood

Level 2

How can I verify that letter I received is from IRS ( afraid of scam)? They want me to call and verify info. # is [phone number removed]

ChondelLO

Level 12

Please visit the TurboTax Help article below for information on how to contact the IRS. The answering representative can help get you connected to the right person for assistance.

How do I contact the Internal Revenue Service (IRS...

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MamaZebo

Level 2

I'm having a problem getting on the phone to the number IRS has provided. It will don't let me hold. I can't get on the website, I forgot my user name and password, and they will not go any further name requesting my phone number. Can you help?

CatinaT1

Level 15

Why are you trying to reach the IRS? Their main number is 800-829-1040.

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fmwbargrill

Level 2

I have called , unable to answer my call because of heavy volume

FBratsis

Level 2

THIS!!! I've been trying to verify for WEEKS. "We're sorry, due to large call volume please call back later or the next business day...". Other departments said to call closer to 7pm. Another said to write my Congressman as they've seen that work. This is ridiculous.

xmasbaby0

Level 15

@FBratsis Call at 7 a.m in the morning, not 7 p.m at night.

**Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to offer the most correct information possible. The poster disclaims any legal responsibility for the accuracy of the information that is contained in this post.**