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How to Check If Someone Else Filed Your Tax Return Fraudulently

Key takeaways:

  • Tax identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information to file a fraudulent tax return and claim your refund
  • Warning signs include receiving IRS notices about suspicious activity, inability to e-file due to duplicate Social Security number, or unfamiliar tax documents
  • If you suspect tax fraud, contact the IRS immediately and complete Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit)

Tax identity theft is a growing concern, with thousands of taxpayers falling victim each year. Scammers use stolen Social Security numbers and other personal information to file fraudulent tax returns and claim refunds in someone else’s name. As a taxpayer, it’s crucial to be aware of the warning signs and know what steps to take if you suspect someone has filed a tax return using your identity.

Warning Signs of Tax Identity Theft

There are several red flags that may indicate someone has filed a fraudulent tax return using your personal information:

  • You receive an IRS notice about a suspicious tax return you didn’t file
  • You can’t e-file your tax return because of a duplicate Social Security number
  • You receive a notice that you owe additional taxes, had collection actions taken against you, or have had multiple tax returns filed using your Social Security number
  • IRS records show you received wages or other income from an employer you don’t know
  • You receive tax documents, such as W-2 or 1099 forms, from unknown sources

If you encounter any of these situations, it’s essential to act quickly to minimize the damage and protect your identity.

Steps to Take If You Suspect Tax Fraud

  1. Contact the IRS: If you receive a letter from the IRS about suspected identity theft, follow the instructions provided. If you suspect fraud but haven’t been contacted by the IRS, call the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-908-4490.
  2. Complete Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit): This form alerts the IRS that your identity has been stolen. Submit the form along with a copy of your valid government-issued identification.
  3. File your tax return by mail: If you’re unable to e-file due to a duplicate Social Security number, file your return by mail and attach Form 14039.
  4. Request a copy of the fraudulent return: You can obtain a copy of the fraudulent return from the IRS to see what information was used.
  5. Place a fraud alert on your credit reports: Contact one of the three major credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, or Equifax) to place a fraud alert on your credit report. This makes it harder for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name.
  6. Report the theft to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC): File a complaint with the FTC at IdentityTheft.gov. This helps law enforcement investigate and prevent further fraud.
  7. Monitor your accounts and credit reports: Regularly review your financial accounts and credit reports for any suspicious activity. Consider enrolling in a credit monitoring service for added protection.

Preventing Tax Identity Theft

While it’s impossible to eliminate the risk of tax identity theft entirely, there are steps you can take to reduce your chances of becoming a victim:

  • Protect your Social Security number and other personal information
  • Use strong, unique passwords for all online accounts
  • Be cautious of unsolicited emails, texts, or calls claiming to be from the IRS
  • Keep your computer and mobile devices updated with the latest security software
  • Shred sensitive documents before disposing of them
  • Consider filing your tax return early, before scammers have a chance to use your information

By staying vigilant and taking proactive measures, you can help safeguard your identity and prevent tax-related fraud.

FAQ

What is tax identity theft?

Tax identity theft occurs when someone uses your stolen Social Security number and other personal information to file a tax return in your name and claim your refund.

How do I know if I’m a victim of tax identity theft?

Warning signs include receiving IRS notices about suspicious activity, being unable to e-file due to a duplicate Social Security number, or receiving unfamiliar tax documents like W-2 or 1099 forms.

What should I do if I suspect someone has filed a fraudulent tax return in my name?

Contact the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-908-4490, complete Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit), and file your tax return by mail. Also, consider placing a fraud alert on your credit reports and reporting the theft to the FTC.

Can I still file my tax return if someone has already filed using my information?

Yes, you should still file your tax return by mail and attach Form 14039 to alert the IRS of the fraudulent activity.

How can I protect myself from tax identity theft?

Safeguard your personal information, use strong passwords, be wary of unsolicited communications claiming to be from the IRS, keep your devices updated with security software, shred sensitive documents, and consider filing your tax return early.

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