Identity Theft INFO

IRS Identity Theft Awareness & Protection

Important Notice:

The IRS never initiates contact with taxpayers via email, text messages, or social media to request personal or financial information.

What Is Tax Return Identity Theft?

Tax return identity theft typically occurs when an electronically filed tax return is rejected as a "duplicate submission." Reports indicate that Florida experiences a higher rate of identity theft compared to other states, with retirees being frequent targets.

Key Information Stolen by Identity Thieves:

• Social Security Number (SSN)
• Tax Return Name (must match SS card exactly)
• Date of Birth (unfortunately, easily obtained online for as little as $1)
• Personal Information Used with a Fraudulent Address

Preventative Measures to Protect Your Identity:

• Never email your tax documents. Use secure file transfer services instead.
• Avoid faxing documents containing SSNs unless the numbers are blocked.
• Use password protection when sending tax returns to banks or mortgage companies.
• Deliver tax documents in person or use a secure dropbox.

Steps to Take If Your Tax Return Is Rejected Due to Identity Theft:

1. Modify the return if possible (e.g., remove a dependent).
2. File an amended return with a cover letter explaining the identity theft.
   • Paper filing is required and may take up to 180 days to process.
3. Complete IRS Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit)
   • Must be submitted with government-issued identification.
4. Await IRS investigation and resolution.
5. If assigned an Identity PIN, use it for all future tax filings.

Additional Steps to Protect Yourself:

• Report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission (identitytheft.gov).
• File a police report (visit your local station; do not call 911).
• Contact major credit bureaus:
  • Equifax: www.equifax.com 800-525-6285
  • Experian: www.experian.com 888-397-3742
  • TransUnion: www.transunion.com 800-680-7289
• Consider using an identity protection service (Lifelock 800-607-7205).

Recognizing & Avoiding IRS Scams:

• Unexpected emails from the IRS are always scams. Forward them to phishing@irs.gov.
• Fake IRS phone calls threatening arrest or requesting financial details should be reported to the Treasury Inspector General at 1-800-366-4484.
• Verify IRS websites—if a site does not begin with "www.irs.gov," report it.

What to Do If You're a Victim of Tax Fraud:

Be alert if you receive IRS notifications about:

• More than one tax return filed under your name.
• A balance due, refund offset, or collection action for a year you did not file.
• IRS records showing more income than you actually earned.
• Federal or state benefits being reduced or canceled due to reported income changes.

IRS Contacts for Identity Theft Assistance:

• Identity Protection Specialized Unit: 800-908-4490
• Taxpayer Advocate Service (if financial difficulties arise): 877-777-4778

Even if you are a victim of identity theft, continue filing your tax returns while waiting for resolution. The IRS is working to streamline case processing, but resolution may take up to 180 days.