Identity theft
Someone filed in your name?
Tax identity theft is fixable. Act quickly, and keep every letter.
Signs someone used your information
- Your e-filed return is rejected because a return with your Social Security number was already filed.
- An IRS letter asks about a return you did not file, or income from an employer you never worked for.
- You receive a tax transcript or refund you did not request.
What to do
- Respond right away to any IRS letter, using the contact information in the letter itself.
- If the IRS asks, complete Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit (opens in a new tab).
- Report it at IdentityTheft.gov (opens in a new tab).
- Get an Identity Protection PIN (opens in a new tab) so no one else can file using your number.
- Book an appointment and bring every letter. We'll help you work through the rest.
More from the IRS: Identity Theft Central (opens in a new tab).