Steps to Take if You Suspect Identity Theft

Steps to Take if You Suspect Identity Theft

In May of this year, the IRS became the latest target of hackers, who accessed more than 100,000 taxpayer accounts.  How can you protect yourself if you suspect your identity is threatened?

The IRS recommends taking these steps:

1. File a police report.

2. Go to https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.

3. Contact one of the following credit bureaus to place a “Fraud Alert” on your credit report:

Equifax, www.Equifax.com, 1-800-525-6285

Experian, www.Experian.com, 1-888-397-3742

TransUnion, www.TransUnion.com, 1-800-680-7289

4. Contact your banks and credit card issuer and close any accounts that have been opened without your authorization.

5. Contact Social Security Administration at www.ssa.gov to create an account and check your earnings statement annually.

6. If you suspect you are a victim of tax-related identity theft, respond immediately to any IRS notice, calling the number provided.  (Note that the IRS will contact you via US mail, NOT phone or email!)

7. Complete IRS Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit. Access form and mailing instructions here: http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f14039.pdf

8. Continue filing and paying your taxes, even if you must file by paper.


By: Honorine M. Campisi, Senior Tax Manager