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Before visiting an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC), confirm that the location handles your issue, schedule an appointment, and gather two original forms of identification plus the tax records related to your question. Check your IRS notice for any additional instructions: notice-driven appointments can require specific documents or your in-person attendance.

1. Confirm the office can help with your issue

TAC services vary by location, and many tax matters can be handled online or by phone instead. Use the IRS office finder: enter your ZIP code and search radius, then check the office’s listed services, directions, and appointment contact. Call ahead to schedule and confirm that the location offers the service you need. The IRS says all TACs provide service by appointment; its Publication 15-A (2026) says this lets visitors know in advance they can get the needed service without long wait times.

If the issue can be resolved through an IRS online service or by phone, that may avoid a trip. Choose an in-person visit when the service requires it or the IRS directs you to attend.

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2. Gather identification and tax documents

Identification

Bring two original forms of identification, including a current government-issued photo ID. The IRS lists examples such as a driver’s license, state identification card, or passport, along with other possible documents including a Social Security card, car title, voter registration card, mortgage statement, lease, utility bill, birth certificate, or certain school records. A tribal membership card may be additional identification, but the IRS says it is not a valid substitute for a driver’s license or passport. Check the IRS’s appointment preparation guidance for its current list.

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Tax and issue-related records

Bring your SSN or ITIN, the tax return for the year in question if you filed one, and records that support your question. Depending on the issue, these may include income documents such as Forms W-2 or 1099. Take any IRS notice or letter you received and follow its document checklist; the notice may specify exactly what to bring.

3. Follow the checklist for your appointment type

Identity verification: Letter 5747C

If you filed the return referenced in Letter 5747C, call the number on the letter to schedule. Bring the letter, the referenced Form 1040-series return, relevant supporting documents, and the required identity records. The IRS specifically says Forms W-2 and 1099 are not tax returns. An authorized representative may accompany or represent you, but you must attend in person to authenticate your identity. Follow the letter’s instructions and the IRS’s Letter 5747C guidance.

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Identity verification: Letter 6167C

For a Letter 6167C appointment, the IRS says to bring the letter, the referenced return, a prior-year return, and supporting records for the returns at issue. Check the Letter 6167C instructions for the details that apply to your case.

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Applying for or renewing an ITIN

Some TACs can review original identity and foreign-status documents, or copies certified by the issuing agency, for an ITIN application or renewal. The IRS says those documents are returned at the end of the appointment. Confirm that the chosen office provides this service and ask about current appointment arrangements through the IRS ITIN information and appointment contact. The IRS page also describes over-the-phone language interpretation and arrangements for sign-language interpretation for visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing; confirm what is available when scheduling.

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4. Plan for arrival and security

  • Arrive on time and check in. The IRS says an appointment may be canceled if you arrive more than 15 minutes late without checking in.
  • Do not bring food or drinks, cameras, or weapons, and silence your phone.
  • If you are ill, reschedule rather than going to the office.
  • Ask when scheduling about interpretation or other accommodations you may need.

Appointment-day checklist

  • Appointment confirmed at a TAC that offers the service you need.
  • Two original IDs, including a current government-issued photo ID.
  • Your SSN or ITIN.
  • The relevant filed return, if applicable, and supporting tax records.
  • Your IRS notice or letter and every item it specifically requests.
  • Any appointment-type requirements, including attendance or special documents.

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