Tax-related identity theft occurs when someone uses your stolen personal information, including your Social Security number, to file a tax return claiming a fraudulent refund. If you suspect you are a victim of identity theft, continue to pay your taxes and file your tax return, even if you must file a paper return. You may not know you’re a victim of
identity theft until you’re notified by the IRS of a possible issue with your return. Be alert to possible tax-related identity theft if: There are steps you can take if your Social Security number or other personal information is compromised. If your Social Security number is compromised and you know or suspect you are a victim of tax-related
identity theft, the IRS recommends these actions: See
Identity Theft Victim Assistance: How It Works for more information about how the IRS can help you. If you previously contacted the IRS and did not have a resolution, contact us for specialized assistance at
800-908-4490. We have teams standing by to help you. Fraudulent Returns If you believe someone has filed a fraudulent return in your name, you can get a copy of the return. See Instructions for Requesting a Copy of Fraudulent Returns. Dependents If you e-file your tax return and get a message telling you that a dependent on your return has been claimed on another tax return or their own, or if you receive an IRS Notice CP87A, you’ll need to find out why someone else claimed your dependent. Learn more at What to Do When Someone Fraudulently Claims Your Dependent. Data BreachNot all data breaches or computer hacks result in tax-related identity theft. It’s important to know what type of personal information was stolen. If you’ve been a victim of a data breach, keep in touch with the company to learn what it is doing to protect you and follow the “Steps for victims of identity theft.” Data breach victims should submit a Form 14039, Identity Theft AffidavitPDF, only if your Social Security number has been compromised and your e-filed return was rejected as a duplicate or the IRS instructs you to file the form. Protect Your Data and IdentityYour Computer and Mobile PhoneThe IRS, state tax agencies and the tax industry need your help to fight back against identity thieves. See Taxes. Security. Together. Some tips:
PasswordsCreate strong passwords that follow these simple guidelines:
Multi-factor authenticationIf you do your own taxes using an online provider, you have the option of using multi-factor authentication as another layer of protection. The IRS strongly encourages the use of this option. It helps prevent identity thieves from accessing your online account with your tax provider. Generally, a multi-factor authentication option allows the user to receive a security code, for example, as a text to a mobile phone. When you return to use the product, you must enter your username, password and the security code to complete the login process. Most financial institutions, social media and email providers also offer multi-factor authentication options. People should opt for multi-factor authentication wherever it is offered. IRS Identity Protection PINsAll taxpayers who can verify their identities are eligible for an Identity Protection PIN. The IP PIN is a 6-digit PIN that offers additional protections for your Social Security number on your tax return. To obtain an IP PIN, use the Get an IP PIN tool to opt into the program. If you already have an IRS account, enter your username and password. If not, you must verify your identity through a rigorous Secure Access authentication process. Review the Secure Access requirements before you start. For details on the IP PIN and alternatives for those who cannot authenticate online, see Get an IP PIN. How We HelpThe IRS, state tax agencies and the tax industry work in coordination as the Security Summit to protect taxpayer data. Our program includes safeguards that identify suspicious returns. We never:
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