How can my family access my ID.me (IRS Identity Verification) account after I die?

The process typically involves contacting ID.me (IRS Identity Verification) with a death certificate and proof of relationship. Our step-by-step guide walks you through the exact procedure.

📋 Taxes at Death

What Happens to Your ID.me (IRS Identity Verification) Account When You Die

CriticalIdentity verification

Quick Facts

Purpose

IRS identity verification

Used by

IRS, SSA, VA, and more

Access

Needed for IRS online

Step-by-Step Guide

Attempt to log in to ID.me

Go to id.me and sign in with the decedent\'s credentials. ID.me is the identity verification gateway for IRS, SSA, and other government services.

Go to page

Note linked government services

Check which government agencies are linked to this ID.me account (IRS, SSA, VA, state agencies).

Use ID.me to access IRS transcripts

If accessible, use the ID.me login to access the IRS online account and download all tax transcripts immediately.

Document Now Checklist

Note the ID.me email and credentials location
List all government services linked to ID.me
Note the 2FA method used (phone, authenticator app)
Use ID.me to access IRS online account

Last verified: June 2026. Platform policies may change. Verify current procedures directly with ID.me (IRS Identity Verification). This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Related Guides

Final Income Tax Return (Form 1040)

The final income tax return covers January 1 through the date of death. It must be filed by April 15 of the year after death. Late filing triggers penalties and interest.

Estate Income Tax (Form 1041)

Form 1041 is required if the estate generates more than $600 in gross income during any tax year while it remains open. Income includes interest, dividends, rent, and capital gains earned by estate assets after the date of death.

Estate Tax Return (Form 706)

Even if the estate is below the federal threshold, you may still need to file Form 706 to elect portability — which transfers the unused exemption to the surviving spouse. This election is critical and must be made on a timely filed Form 706.

Browse all 1,800+ platform guides Digital Readiness Score Final Income Tax Return (Form 1040) guide Estate Income Tax (Form 1041) guide

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