In efforts to improve online access to information on identity theft and data security, the Internal Revenue Service has created an Identity Theft Central page. It’s important to be vigilant against identity theft especially during tax season, as more and more taxpayers are having their timely filed returns rejected because someone has already filed an income tax return using their social security number. Here’s how the IRS’ new tool can help you protect yourself.

What does tax related identity theft entail?

Tax related identity theft occurs when someone steals your personal information to file a fraudulent return or to claim a refund or tax credit.

Know the signs

You may be a victim of tax ID 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.
• IRS records indicate you received wages or other income from an employer you didn’t work for.

FACT: The IRS doesn't initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text messages or social media channels to request personal or financial information. DO NOT RESPOND to any purported IRS request originating from this source.

What does the ID theft page include?

The IRS’ Identity Theft Central includes information on:

• How to report identity theft- If your social security number or other personal information is compromised, there are steps you should take immediately, including calling the IRS, completing form 14039 (Identity theft affidavit), requesting a copy of the fraudulent return and more.
• How to protect yourself against phishing and other online scams-The IRS recommends that you use security software and make sure it updates automatically, use strong unique passwords, back up your files, and be mindful of emails that contain an urgent message, suspicious link, sender etc. Our whitepaper, OWN IT, SECURE IT, PROTECT IT contains helpful tips for staying safe online—be sure to check it out.

Your taxes can be negatively impacted if your social security number is used to file a fraudulent return—remember to be vigilant this tax season!

Questions? Contact us.