IRS & Tennessee ID.me Verification Requirements | Ask a CPA

July 25, 2025

IRS & Tennessee ID.me Verification Requirements — What You Need to Know 

IMPORTANT: If you're a client of White Olive CPA, you must complete ID.me identity verification immediately to avoid delays in filing and accessing critical IRS and state tax services. This requirement affects both federal IRS accounts and services for the State of Tennessee.

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What Is ID.me?

ID.me is a secure digital identity verification platform used by the IRS and many state governments. It allows taxpayers to prove who they are online—safely and reliably.


Both the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Tennessee Department of Revenue now require ID.me accounts to access a growing list of services including:


  • Viewing tax transcripts
  • Checking account balances
  • Making or managing payments
  • Accessing tax documents
  • Verifying professional credentials (for tax preparers)

Who Needs to Verify with ID.me?

Most taxpayers must create and verify their ID.me accounts if they:


  • Want to access IRS online tools
  • Need to view their federal tax information
  • Want to manage payment plans or balances
  • Live in Tennessee and need to interact with the state’s tax or employment systems


Tennessee Residents:
The state of Tennessee now uses ID.me for many professional and employment-related access points. If you haven’t yet created your ID.me account, you can start with this guide from TN.gov.

Why Is This Important?

Completing your ID.me verification is critical for several reasons:


  • It’s now required to access most online IRS services
  • Filing delays may occur without verification
  • Identity theft prevention: ID.me helps stop fraud before it happens
  • It ensures White Olive CPA can act on your behalf for certain filings and requests


If you do not complete this, we cannot move forward with some tax services—especially those involving transcripts, IRS correspondence, or early-season e-filings.

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Step-by-Step: How to Set Up ID.me

1. Go to the Right Site


2. Create or Log In to ID.me
  • Choose the partner agency (IRS or TN)
  • Click "Sign In with ID.me"


3. Upload Required Documents
  • Driver’s license, state ID, or passport
  • Submit clear images of both front and back


4. Complete Selfie or Video Call Verification
  • You may be asked to take a live selfie
  • Alternatively, join a short video call with an ID.me agent


5. Secure Your Account
  • Set up two-factor authentication (e.g., text or app)
  • Use a strong password, and store credentials securely

Tips for a Smooth Setup

  • Use a desktop or laptop (not mobile) for best results
  • Have all documents ready and legible
  • Use consistent information—name, address, birthdate should match tax records
  • Enable good lighting if taking a selfie
  • Avoid wearing glasses or hats during facial verification


Common Issues & Troubleshooting

If verification fails:

  • Try again on a different browser (Chrome or Firefox work best)
  • Clear your cache or use private browsing mode
  • Contact ID.me support for real-time help


Still stuck? You may be given the option to verify via a live agent or alternative documentation.


Final Reminders from White Olive CPA
  • Please complete ID.me setup immediately
  • This is required to prevent filing delays and access important tax tools
  • We cannot complete services for you (including transcript pulls, IRS payment plans, and some state returns) without your ID.me account
  • Keep your credentials secure and backed up
Need Help?

We’re here to guide you.

If you're unsure whether you've completed ID.me or run into issues, book a time with us right away:

👉 Schedule with Mark @ White Olive CPA

Your Partner in Smart, Secure, and Fast Tax Filing.

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