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Why can't IRS verify my identity using My T-Mobile phone


I have tried to create an online account at irs.gov and go to the step where they ask for a mobile phone number to verify my identity. When I enter my T-Mobile phone number, I receive an error message saying "We weren't able to verify your identity using your phone." I am the primary account holder of T-Mobile account. T-Mobile support states they do not know the reason for this failure. Is this just me or for everyone on T-Mobile?

30 replies

T~Mobile often blocks 3rd party short codes. You need to call snd ask that the block be removed. 

It is possible their records still indicate you as having a prepaid account and would need to be updated. I know finding a customer support option on their site might be a bit tough but did they provide any other ways of verifying?

The IRS does provide an alternative ID method.  They will send you a code by “snail mail”.  Mine took about a week to arrive and it allowed me to create an account.  Unfortunately, the first time I tried to log into my new account I was asked again to provide a mobile number to ID myself and received the same error message.  So, that’s a dead end.

I called T Mobile today and found out I had NO blocks on anything but I also discovered my outgoing caller ID was in someone else’s name.  Probably the last person to have my number.  I had it changed but the tech said it might not take effect for 72 hours.  I’ll try then and repost.

I called T Mobile today and found out I had NO blocks on anything but I also discovered my outgoing caller ID was in someone else’s name.  Probably the last person to have my number.  I had it changed but the tech said it might not take effect for 72 hours.  I’ll try then and repost.

I have verified that my caller ID matches IRS records and the problem still exists for me.  I just got off the phone with T Moblle tech support for the past 2 hours.  They claim to be looking into this but I’ll be surprised if I ever hear anything.

I called T Mobile today and found out I had NO blocks on anything but I also discovered my outgoing caller ID was in someone else’s name.  Probably the last person to have my number.  I had it changed but the tech said it might not take effect for 72 hours.  I’ll try then and repost.

I have verified that my caller ID matches IRS records and the problem still exists for me.  I just got off the phone with T Moblle tech support for the past 2 hours.  They claim to be looking into this but I’ll be surprised if I ever hear anything.

I never heard a word from T Mobile but I seem to have solved this at least temporarily.  I had previously tried (and failed) to use a code I received in the mail but I tried again and this time it worked.  I gained access to my account and no longer receive the error message upon logging in.  I hope it continues to work but won’t be surprised if it doesn’t.  Good luck to the rest of you.

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