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...

HAVE A QUESTION ABOUT THIS TOPIC?

You can count on us for professional, timely and reliable tax and accounting services. If you have a question, just fill out this form and we’ll reply within 24 hours.

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 .
I consent to receive SMS messages and agree with the

Sign up for our newsletter

Each month, we’ll send you a roundup of our latest blog content covering the tax and accounting tips & insights you need to know.

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 .

"JRJBF" is the brand name under which KMA, S.C. and KMA Management, LLC and its subsidiary entities provide professional services. KMA, S.C. and KMA Management, LLC and its subsidiary entities practice as an alternative practice structure in accordance with the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and applicable laws, regulations, and professional standards. KMA, S.C. is a licensed independent CPA firm that provides attest services to its clients, and KMA Management, LLC and its subsidiary entities provide tax and business consulting services to their clients. KMA Management, LLC and its subsidiary entities are not licensed CPA firms.