Discovering that your identity has been stolen is a stressful experience, and the immediate concern is often what the thief will do with your personal information. One of the most critical steps you must take is contacting the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to report the theft and protect your tax status. Filing a fraudulent tax return is a common tactic used by identity thieves, which can leave you with unexpected tax liabilities, ruined credit, and significant headaches if not addressed immediately. This guide provides a clear path on how to contact the IRS about identity theft, outlining the necessary steps to secure your tax records and restore your financial standing.
Immediate Actions: Filing Your Taxes and Placing a Fraud Alert
Before you even call the IRS, there are two crucial protective measures you should already have in place. First, ensure you have filed your legitimate tax return for the year in question; the IRS processes returns on a first-come, first-served basis, which helps prevent thieves from submitting a return in your name. Second, you should place a fraud alert or credit freeze with the major credit bureaus. A fraud alert warns creditors to verify your identity before extending credit, while a credit freeze is a more rigid barrier that stops all access to your credit report. Implementing these steps reduces the window of opportunity for the thief and strengthens your position when communicating with the IRS.
Understanding IRS Identity Theft Protection
The IRS has specific protocols in place for taxpayers who are victims of identity theft, primarily managed through their Identity Protection Specialized Unit. If the IRS determines that someone has used your Social Security number to file a fraudulent return, they will initiate a multi-step verification process to protect your account. This process is designed to ensure that you are recognized as the rightful taxpayer before any further action is taken on your behalf. Understanding that the IRS operates a dedicated system for this issue can provide reassurance that there is a structured process to follow, even if the journey requires patience.
Submitting Form 14039: The Critical First Step
The cornerstone of resolving identity theft with the IRS is completing Form 14039, the Identity Theft Affidavit. This document serves as your official statement to the IRS that you are a victim of criminal identity theft. You should complete this form if you believe someone has used your Social Security number to file a tax return, set up a fake address, or otherwise interfere with your tax account. While you can print and mail the form, the most efficient method is usually to call the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit, as an agent can often guide you through the process or help you e-file the form, ensuring the submission is handled promptly and accurately.
