How Do I Report Identity Theft to the IRS?
Identity theft is one of the worst experiences anyone can endure, but the IRS does its best to protect and inform you if it happens to you. The agency has many resources that can help you get your life back on track, including the 24-hour Identity Theft customer service number.
Identity theft is one of the most widespread crimes in the world, with a new victim being targeted every two seconds. If this happens to you, know that the IRS has security measures in place to help you. Please read on to learn more about when and how to report identity theft.
Signs of Tax-related Identity Theft
If you receive a form from the IRS that you did not request, this is a sign of identity theft. The IRS suggests alerting the agency if you receive a tax transcript you didn't request or a notification that an online account was created in your name when you don't have one. You should also reach out if you receive an alert that your existing online account has been disabled when you haven't tried to access it recently. For more information, please reach out to the IRS here or search in the Identity Theft Central section of the website.
IRS Notices
The IRS is famous for mailing out notices as its main point of contact for taxpayers. If you receive a notice from them, please review it thoroughly. The IRS also suggests immediately calling the number that is located on the bottom of the notice.
You also have the option of using the Identity Theft Affidavit, or Form 14039, if you know or suspect that you're a victim of identity theft. You can save the form and print it out at home, or you can request that a copy be mailed to you, then submit it by mail or fax once it's completed. Form 14039 provides your consent to the IRS to mark your account for possible identity theft. Please note that you should only file this form as instructed by an IRS representative or you have already attempted to electronically file your return but were alerted that it was already filed.
You can also request or save a copy of Publication 5027, which is titled, Identity Theft Information for Taxpayers, for more tips and information on dealing with this topic. Another form, Publication 4524 Security Awareness for Taxpayers, is available for download and can help inform you how to keep your cyber-data safe.
You can also reach the IRS' Identity Theft representative line here 24 hours a day.
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