Identity theft represents a significant threat to the average American. Every day it seems we hear of stories of trustworthy institutions getting hacked, private information leaked to the public or sold to malicious agencies. The IRS takes identity theft seriously. Preventing refund fraud is a top priority for the government. The IRS is focused on preventing, detecting, and resolving identity theft as soon as possible. Resolving ID theft once it has occurred is a complex and time consuming proposition. The best way to stop theft is through vigilance and prevention. The IRS recommends that you do not carry your Social Security number on your person. Check your credit every year. Secure personal information in a safe or other secure location. Protect your computer with up to date anti-virus software and firewalls. Above all else, do not give personal information over the phone, through the mail, or on the internet, unless you know the person or entity with whom you are dealing.
Indications that you may have been the possible victim of identity theft include more than one tax return on you was filed. If you have a balance due, refund offset, or collection actions taken against you when you have not filed a tax return you may be a victim. IRS records show you received more income than you actually earned. Your state or federal benefits were cancelled because the agency received information reporting an income change. All these are indications that you need to seek help to reestablish your identity. Your tax attorney can help
If you have been the victim of identity theft, you need to take steps to secure your legal and financial identity. Contact the Federal Trade Commission identity theft hotline. Report the theft at the credit reporting bureaus. IRS need you to fill out Form 14039 and file the IRS Identity Theft Affidavit. This will establish for the record your sworn statement regarding the theft. Please be patient with the investigation. Identity theft cases are unusually complex, with the thieves even contacting the IRS themselves to muddle the case. Unfortunately, these cases can span years and require the resolution of multiple issues. A typical case may take 180 days, though the IRS is working to reduce that number. Please note that while the IRS is investigating your case you will need to file tax returns normally. For more information about how your tax attorney can help you please contact us at 913-735-4829
