Bottom Line: If your “Where’s My Refund” status has been stuck on “Received” or “Still Processing” for more than 21 days, check your physical mailbox immediately. You likely have—or are about to receive—IRS Letter 5071C.
This is not an audit. It is a “pause button.” The IRS Fraud Detection System has flagged your return as potentially suspicious, and they will pay $0.00 until you prove you are the one who filed it.
Here is the good news: You can fix this in 10 minutes from your phone. Once you verify, the freeze usually lifts within 7 to 14 days (despite the IRS claiming it takes 9 weeks).
The Only Way to Fix It: idverify.irs.gov
Do not call the main IRS number. They cannot help you until you complete this step.
Step 1: Gather Your “Keys”
You cannot guess your way through this. One wrong answer will lock you out, forcing you to make a 2-hour phone call. Have these exact documents in front of you:
- The 5071C Letter: You need the 14-digit “Control Number” from the top right corner.
- 2025 Tax Return (The one you just filed): You need the exact AGI and refund amount.
- 2024 Tax Return (Last year’s): You may be asked for prior year data.
- W-2s or 1099s: To verify employer names or withholding amounts.
Step 2: The Digital Handshake
Go strictly to idverify.irs.gov. This is the official tool.
- Log in using ID.me.
- Enter the Control Number.
- Answer the “Knowledge-Based Authentication” questions (e.g., “Which car loan did you open in 2022?”).
Step 3: The Success Message
When you finish, you will see a screen saying: “Congratulations! We have successfully verified your identity. Processing of your return will resume.” Screenshot this page.
Timeline: When Will I Get Paid?
The official IRS guidance says to wait up to 9 weeks. However, real-world data from the 2026 season shows a much faster turnaround for online verifiers.
| Action Taken | Estimated Wait for Refund |
| Verified Online (idverify) | 1 – 2 Weeks |
| Verified by Phone | 3 – 6 Weeks |
| Did Nothing | Indefinite Freeze |
Critical Warning: The Fake Letter Scam
Scammers know about the 5071C wave. They are mailing fake letters that look identical but direct you to a .com or .net website.
The Rule: If the URL does not end in .gov, throw it in the trash. The IRS does not use .org or .com for verification.
What if I Lost the Letter?
If you know you need to verify but lost the letter, you cannot use the online tool because you need the Control Number. You must call the TPP (Taxpayer Protection Program) line at 800-830-5084. Be prepared to hold for 60+ minutes.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Always consult official government resources.
Evan Cole Editor-in-Chief | Breaking News & Public Policy
“From Washington to Wall Street, and Main Street to Hollywood—Evan Cole connects the dots.”
As the Editor-in-Chief at Newskilo, Evan leads a dynamic team of journalists dedicated to uncovering the truth behind the headlines. With over 15 years in digital media, Evan has a reputation for cutting through the noise.
While he is widely recognized for his deep analysis of U.S. fiscal policy (IRS & Stimulus), Evan’s expertise extends to global current events, corporate accountability, and cultural trends. Whether he is breaking down a complex government bill, exposing a tech giant’s failure, or analyzing the societal impact of a viral celebrity moment, Evan’s goal is simple: To tell the stories that shape our world with clarity, accuracy, and integrity.