About TIN verification

Use TIN verification to confirm that filers’ and recipients' names and Taxpayer Identification Numbers (TINs) match IRS records before you file. Verifying this information helps you avoid penalties and ensures accurate reporting.

How TIN verification works

A TIN is a 9-digit number the IRS uses to identify individuals and businesses. The most common types are Social Security Numbers (SSNs) and Employer Identification Numbers (EINs).

When you verify a TIN, the system instantly checks the filer’s or recipient's name and TIN combination against the IRS TIN matching program database. The IRS maintains this database to help filers confirm information.

Verifications typically complete in a few seconds, or 5-10 seconds when verifying multiple TINs.

TIN verification costs

Each TIN verification costs $1. If a verification fails and you correct the information, you'll be charged $1 when you verify again. If the IRS service is unavailable or there’s a connection error, you won’t be charged.

Eligible forms

According to IRS Publication 2108, you can only use the IRS TIN matching program for recipients reported on the following forms:

• 1099-B
• 1099-DIV
• 1099-INT
• 1099-G
• 1099-K
• 1099-MISC
• 1099-NEC
• 1099-OID
• 1099-PATR