Understanding the IRS Mail- What Your IRS Check Looks Like and How to Identify It

What does a IRS check look like in the mail?

Receiving an IRS check in the mail can be an exciting moment for many taxpayers, especially those who have overpaid their taxes or are expecting a refund. However, it’s important to know how to identify a genuine IRS check to avoid falling victim to scams. In this article, we will discuss the features of a typical IRS check and provide tips on how to verify its authenticity.

Features of a Typical IRS Check

1. Watermark: Genuine IRS checks have a watermark of the Great Seal of the United States in the upper right corner. The watermark is visible when held up to the light.

2. Security Thread: A security thread runs vertically through the paper. When held up to the light, the thread displays the words “USA” and “Internal Revenue Service” multiple times.

3. Microprint: Microprint is used on the check to prevent copying. You can see the words “United States Treasury” in small letters across the check.

4. Serial Number: Each IRS check has a unique serial number printed in the upper right corner.

5. Payee Name: The name of the person or entity to whom the check is payable is printed in the upper left corner.

6. Amount in Numbers and Words: The amount of the check is printed in both numbers and words, and the words “U.S. Treasury” are included.

7. Date: The date the check was issued is printed in the upper right corner.

8. Mailing Address: The address of the IRS office that issued the check is printed in the lower left corner.

9. Void Portion: The bottom of the check contains a void portion that says “VOID” in large letters to prevent the check from being cashed if it is lost or stolen.

How to Verify the Authenticity of an IRS Check

To ensure that the IRS check you receive is genuine, follow these steps:

1. Compare the Check to Previous Examples: If you have received IRS checks before, compare the new check to the old ones to ensure they look similar.

2. Contact the IRS: If you have any doubts about the authenticity of the check, contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 to verify its legitimacy.

3. Inspect the Check: Look for any signs of tampering, such as smudges, alterations, or missing information.

4. Use the IRS Tax Identity Verification Service: The IRS offers a Tax Identity Verification Service that can help you determine if a check is genuine.

Conclusion

Receiving an IRS check in the mail can be a pleasant surprise, but it’s crucial to verify its authenticity to avoid scams. By familiarizing yourself with the features of a typical IRS check and following the verification steps, you can ensure that you are receiving a genuine check from the IRS. Always be cautious and contact the IRS if you have any doubts about the validity of a check.