Why Does My Refund Status Say “Information Doesn’t Match” and What Does It Mean?
Introduction
If you have ever filed for a tax refund, you are aware that the wait for the refund status can be nerve-wracking. During this process, you check the status of your refund multiple times a day, expectantly waiting for the refund approval. However, if your refund status says, “information doesn’t match,” you may feel confused and frustrated, questioning what went wrong. This blog article will explore the underlying causes of the problem and what you can do about it.
Why does the IRS say “Information Doesn’t Match”?
The IRS refunds process runs on an automatic verification system that compares the information you provide with the information held by the Social Security Administration (SSA), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and the Department of State. While generally accurate, the information may not match due to various reasons such as:
– Typographical errors: Small mistakes in the spelling of your address or name can cause the refund status to indicate an information mismatch.
– Name change: If you got married recently and changed your name after filing your returns, the new name may not match the one on the database, causing a mismatch.
– Incorrect social security number: A mismatch can be caused by a simple mistake in social security numbers either from you or your employer.
– Address change: If you change your address after filing your returns, the new address may not match the previous one on file, causing a mismatch.
– Identity theft: If your identity has been stolen and used to file a fraudulent return, the IRS matches the stolen information with your tax returns and flags it as an information mismatch.
What should you do if your refund status says “Information Doesn’t Match”?
If your refund status indicates information doesn’t match, the IRS will notify you through a letter known as Identity Verification Letter (Letter 4883C). The letter contains instructions on what you should do next to resolve the mismatch.
In most cases, the instructions will require you to confirm your identity by filling an Identity Verification Service (IVS) questionnaire online, through a toll-free number, or by mail. The information required to fill the questions on the IVS questionnaire will depend on how you filed your returns. If filed electronically, the questionnaire may ask for your adjusted gross income from the previous year’s tax forms and your prior-year PIN. However, if you filed a paper return, the questionnaire may ask for your current year AGI and basic personal details such as your mailing address and social security number.
After supplying the requested information, you must wait for a few weeks while the IRS verifies it. The verification process may result in either the approval of your return or the IRS requesting additional documentation to support your claim.
Conclusion
If your refund status says information doesn’t match, remain calm as the situation can be resolved. The causes of information mismatches may range from small errors to identity theft. However, the IRS Identity Verification Letter will guide you through the process of resolving the issue. Ensure you respond to the letter promptly and accurately, supplying all the requested information. By following the instructions and staying patient, you will be able to receive your refund.
