There is only one way to make sure you are not a victim of Tax Identity Fraud. You need to file your tax return before the Tax Thief files a return using your Social Security number! The first return wins.
If the thief is first, your return will not process. If you are first, the fraudulent return will not process. It’s as simple as “The First Return Wins“.
Do not delay. If you owe money, you can file today and mail the check on April 15th. Just do it!
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Over 5 Billion Dollars lost to Identity Thieves filing false 2011 Returns
There is a filing gap that thieves take advantage of to steal our tax dollars. Tax returns can be filed as early as January 15th, but businesses and institutions do not report to the IRS until March 31. Thus, the IRS does not know there is a problem until it is too late.
IRS also has systems problems. They do not seem to have the proper red flags in place to detect even obvious fraud. There were 21,000 returns filed to one address in Michigan which should have triggered an alert.
Nearly all of the false returns were filed electronically. The IRS needs to expand their Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN) program to ALL tax returns filed electronically.
Indications your identity may have been stolen and how to report it to the IRS.
Your identity may have been stolen if you receive a letter from the IRS stating that …
… you filed more than one tax return.
… you have a balance due, refund offset or have had collection actions taken against you for a year you did not file.
and / or
… you received wages from an employer you have not worked for.
If you receive such a letter from the IRS and you suspect your identity has been stolen, respond immediately to the name, address, phone number or fax listed on the IRS letter or contact the IRS to determine if the letter is a legitimate IRS letter.
If you become the victim of identity theft outside of the tax system or believe you may be at risk due to a lost/stolen purse or wallet, questionable credit card activity or credit report, etc., you are encouraged to contact the IRS at the Identity Protection Specialized Unit, toll-free at 800-908-4490 so we can take steps to further secure your account.
The IPSU hours of Operation: Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. your local time (Alaska & Hawaii follow Pacific Time).
You will need to fill out the IRS Identity Theft Affidavit, Form 14039. Please be sure to write legibly and follow the instructions on the back of the form.
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