IRS Stops Using Facial Authentication Software for Access to Online Accounts

Article Highlights:

• Prior Article

• ID.me

• Treasury Decision

• IRS Third-Party Authentication

A prior blog article posting included an article about the IRS’ plans to use ID.me facial recognition software for taxpayers and others to authenticate access to their online accounts.

Under pressure from privacy activists and several members of Congress, the Treasury Department has directed the IRS to transition away from using the controversial ID.me ID facial recognition verification services after deciding that biometric information is inherently risky and pointing out that many facial recognition systems have deep racial and gender biases.

On February 7, 2022, the IRS announced that over the next few weeks it will transition away from requiring taxpayers to use third-party facial recognition software to authenticate their online accounts. The IRS says that it will develop "an additional authentication process that does not involve facial recognition." However, it didn't specify what that process would be and when it would be effective.

So, you will not be needing an ID.me verification if the IRS requirement was your only need for one.

Share this article...

Want our best tax and accounting tips and insights delivered to your inbox?

Sign up for our newsletter.

I confirm this is a service inquiry and not an advertising message or solicitation. By clicking “Submit”, I acknowledge and agree to the creation of an account and to the and .

Our Offices

Our expertise is widespread and we have multiple office locations to make it convenient for you to get help. You can find us at:

Oregon Office

4545 SW 96th Ave
Beaverton, Oregon 97005
Monday through Friday:
9am to 5pm and by appointment

April-December
Monday through Thursday
10am to 2pm

Connecticut Office

P.O. Box 271356
West Hartford, Connecticut 06127
By Appointment Only

Idaho Office

2020 Blaine St.
Caldwell, Idaho 83605
Monday through Friday:
9am to 5pm and by appointment

April-December
Monday through Thursday
10am to 2pm