Tax-related identity theft with IRS occurs when someone uses your stolen Social Security number to file a tax return claiming a fraudulent refund.
You may be unaware that this has happened until you e-file your return and discover that a return already has been filed using your SSN. Or, the IRS may send you a letter saying we have identified a suspicious return using your SSN.
Be alert to possible tax-related identity theft if you are contacted by the IRS or your tax professional/provider about:
- More than one tax return was filed using your SSN.
- You owe additional tax, refund offset or 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 for whom you did not work.
Being victimized by identity theft can profoundly impact your financial life. Although it is true that victims’ liability for fraudulent transactions is limited, proving you are not the responsible party takes tremendous effort. Unless action is taken quickly, fraudulent charges can continue to emerge for many years after the initial identity theft.
In effect, identity theft can make you feel as if you are a completely different person … one who does not enjoy the benefits of the sound financial foundation you’ve carefully built for yourself.
To limit the damage from identity theft, you should seek expert help right away. Contact us for support at (866) 566-8582