The IRS website contains useful information on how to avoid becoming a victim of identity theft, plus steps to take if you do become a victim.
Here are the warning signs that you may have had your identity stolen:
- The IRS notifies you that more than one tax return was filed using your social security number.
- You’re notified that you owe additional tax or you’ve had collection actions taken against you for a year you did not file a tax return.
- IRS records indicate you received wages from an employer unknown to you.
If you become a victim, the IRS recommends that you take the following steps:
- File a police report.
- File a complaint with the FTC.
- Contact one of the three credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your account.
- Close any financial accounts opened without your permission.
- Respond immediately to any IRS notice, according to the instructions given.
- Complete IRS Form 14039 “Identity Theft Affidavit.”
- Continue to pay your taxes and file your tax return, even if by paper.