About identity verification
Identity verification is the process of proving you are who you say you are, the same way you do when opening a bank account or applying for a loan. Identity verification helps to keep your information safe and prevent identity fraud. You may be required to verify your identity when you apply for some state services using MyMassGov.
MyMassGov will check information you submit against known, verified sources to make sure you are who you say you are. Once you verify your identity through MyMassGov, you may not have to do it again when you use state services.
Video: What is Identity Verification
Skip this video What is Identity Verification.The identity verification process
There are two steps in the identity verification process. Everyone who chooses to verify their identity will start with Step 1.
Step 1: Provide your information
Some people will only need to complete step 1.
Read more instructions for step 1.
You'll be asked for the following:
Full legal name
Email address
Social Security number
Phone number
Date of birth
Residential address
Step 2: Complete document verification
Only some people will need to complete step 2.
Get more instructions about step 2.
You may also be asked to submit valid, government-issued identification (ID) documents. For this step, you’ll need a smartphone or tablet with a camera. Examples of accepted documents include:
- A driver's license
- A state or government ID card
- A passport
Along with images of your identity documents, you'll be asked to take and submit a picture of yourself. MyMassGov will then compare the documents and picture to try to verify your identity.