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 return. Be alert to possible tax-related identity theft if:
- You get a letter from the IRS inquiring about a suspicious tax return that you did not file.
- You can’t e-file your tax return because of a duplicate Social Security Number.
- You get a tax transcript in the mail that you did not request.
- You get an IRS notice that an online account has been created in your name.
- You get an IRS notice that your existing online account has been accessed or disabled when you took no action.
- You get an IRS notice that you owe additional tax or refund offset, or that you have had collection actions taken against you for a year you did not file a tax return.
- URS records indicate you received wages or other income from an employer you didn’t work for.
If you believe you are a victim of Identity Theft, Data Breach, or Employment-Related Identity Theft visit https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/taxpayer-guide-to-identity-theft.
- Initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text, or social media to request personal or financial information.
- Call taxpayers with threats of lawsuits or arrests.
- Call, email or text to request taxpayers’ Identity Protection PINS.
Source: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/taxpayer-guide-to-identity-theft