What is an ID.me Account? Easing Expat Access to U.S. Accounts

Americans living abroad will likely need to create an ID.me account as part of navigating the financial responsibilities that come with being an expat.

Establishing and effectively managing online accounts with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA) is fundamental to managing finances across borders.

Signing up for ID.me helps U.S. expats adhere to U.S. tax laws and optimize Social Security benefits.

We recognize the pivotal role of accessing these services. Below, we address the typical question, “What is an ID.me account?”

We also explain how to create an ID.me account and review common questions around safety and data privacy.

The Benefits of ID.me

ID.me offers a host of advantages for expats, but we wouldn’t be a cross-border financial planning firm if we didn’t remind you that advance research and prep always pay dividends when you live abroad.

Convenience

Access multiple government websites using a single ID, eliminating the hassle of managing multiple credentials. ID.me supports access to the following government departments:

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Social Security Administration (SSA, learn more about the WEP repeal)
US Department of Veterans Affairs
Department of Health & Human Services

Additionally, 14 states also offer support through ID.me. (1)

Save for later:U.S. Expat Taxes: How to File from Abroad in 6 Simple Steps

Security

ID.me employs stringent security measures such as multi-factor authentication and data encryption, safeguarding sensitive information.

Ease of Use

ID.me features a straightforward verification process that can be completed effortlessly from anywhere in the world.

Note that it is extremely helpful to have certain processes set up before moving abroad so that you can seamlessly work with tools such as ID.me.

For example, planning ahead to anticipate how you will receive texts from U.S.-based institutions, having email login information organized and accessible, and more will support every administrative process you undertake as an expat.

How to Create an ID.me Account

Initiate Verification

Begin at the relevant website and select "Sign in with ID.me" or "Verify with ID.me."2. Account Creation: Sign in or create an ID.me account, ensuring alignment of your details with the partner site.

Account Creation

Caution: Avoid duplicating ID.me accounts, as each account functions as a distinct form of identification.

Email Confirmation and Multi-Factor Authentication

Verify your email address and set up multi-factor authentication. For those of you living abroad, don’t worry! ID.me accepts international phone numbers.

Learn more about ID.me MFA options. (2)

Prepare Identity Documents

Ensure possession of original copies of accepted primary or secondary identity documents.

Note on International Documents: Attach translations if documents are not in English; official translations are not mandatory.

Learn more about the document requirements when living internationally. (3)

Verification via ID.me

Options: Self-Service or Video Chat Agent

Self-Service: Requires ID documents and a selfie.
Video Chat Agent: Involves ID documents and a recorded video chat, often necessary for identity verification from abroad.

When prompted, select Non-U.S. Options. When you indicate that you reside outside of the U.S., you’ll be granted access to a greater variety of verification options.

Enter Information and Review

Follow prompts, review, and update details as needed. Here are some images from the ID.me website that show common questions when registering abroad.

ID.me information review sample screenshot

Document Submission

Upload required documents, ensuring necessary translations for international documents. (See step 4).

Engage in the Video Call

Interact with an agent during the video call to verify identity and documents. (4)

During the call, the agent will confirm your contact information and view your identity documents for verification.

ID.me Confirmation

Upon successful verification, expect a confirmation email.

Login

Congratulations! This is the final step.

Now you can log in and verify your identity on any website that partners with ID.me!

Can you have two accounts on ID.me?

It is not possible to have two verified accounts on ID.me. However, if you created an ID.me account that you are no longer able to access or that was suspended, you may need to work with helpdesk services to set up a new, verified account.

Navigating government websites remotely can seem daunting, but ID.me greatly simplifies this process.

By following the above steps, setting up your ID.me account becomes a streamlined gateway to managing U.S.-based accounts while residing abroad.

Reliably accessing U.S. accounts becomes very important when expats plan to retire abroad.

Feel Like You Could Have a Better Handle On Your Expat Finances?

At Connected Financial Planning, we know that you work hard to ensure that you and your family are financially provided for the long term.

While our cross-border planning services are tailored for U.S. expats in Switzerland and Germany, we are pleased to offer expat financial planning coaching calls to support the broader expat community.

US citizens filing for a US tax extension.

FAQ

What does ID.me do with my data?

With your consent, ID.me transfers your personal information to third parties to support in verifying your identity. It’s designed to prevent fraud and keep your identity secure.

How to unlock suspended ID.me account?

To unlock a suspended ID.me account, you will need to request a review of the decision to lock the account. Note that access to the email used to set up the ID.me account you are trying to access will be key to unlocking a suspended account. If you don’t have that access, you will need to create a new ID.me account. (5)

How to update your phone number on ID.me?

Changing a phone number on ID.me can be complicated if the original account was set up using multi-factor authentication, so the best way to update your phone number will depend on how you originally created the account. (6)

Is there an ID.me customer service number to talk to a live person?

Unfortunately, no. With the exception of live workers verifying your identity during the sign-up process, ID.me does not offer live customer service support for general inquiries.