What this notice is about We verified your claim of identity theft and have placed an indicator on your account. We’ll monitor your tax account for activity to help prevent future fraud. What you need to do We don’t require any additional actions on your part right now. In the future, you will need to file your tax returns with an Identity Protection (IP) PIN. In December or January of each year, we will mail your IP PIN to you – you’ll need to use this PIN to file your taxes. You’ll receive a new IP PIN each year. If you’d prefer to have an IP PIN sooner, you can Request an IP PIN online. Once you request an IP PIN online, you’re automatically enrolled in paperless IP PIN assignment. You’ll need to sign into your account annually to retrieve your new IP PIN. You may want to Review the IRS’s Identity theft central page for more information. Review the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) website, IdentityTheft.gov. Monitor all your personal financial accounts. Monitor your credit report for suspicious or unauthorized activities. You or an authorized third party may request a redacted copy (one with some information blacked-out) of the fraudulent return that was filed and accepted by the IRS using your name and SSN. For more information on how to request a copy of a fraudulent return, see Instructions for requesting copy of fraudulent returns. In addition to protecting your own personally identifiable information (PII), your dependent’s information could be compromised. If your dependent’s PII was compromised, file a complaint with the FTC at IdentityTheft.gov and receive step-by-step guidance. If internet access is not an option, you can call the FTC at 877-438-4338; TTY: 866-653-4261. Frequently asked questions What effect does the Identity Theft Indicator have on my account? (updated Oct. 25, 2024) The indicator has no effect on your ability to file your tax return, make payments, or receive a refund. However, you will have to file with an IP PIN for as long as the indicator is on your account. How long does the indicator remain on my account? The indicator will remain on your tax account to protect it because you were a victim of identity theft, unless you specifically request that we remove it. What happens if someone else uses my SSN to file a fraudulent tax return? The indicator we placed on your account will alert us to perform research to make sure a tax return filed with your SSN is valid. If we find the tax return to be invalid, we won't process it. Who should I contact if I have more questions about my account related to identity theft? Call 800-908-4490 for specialized assistance regarding identity theft related to your account. You can also find the number on your notice. For all other tax account related questions, visit our Let us help you page or call 800-829-1040. Where can I find more information on preventing identity theft? The FTC is responsible for providing support and guidance regarding consumer protection Reduce your risk of identity theft Tips to help you be safe and secure online Social Security Administration’s (SSA) website for Fraud Prevention and Reporting Tips for next year File your return as you normally would. If we find someone attempting to use your SSN to file a tax return, we’ll notify you. Reference tools Publication 1, Your Rights as a Taxpayer Identity Theft Central Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) Deceased taxpayer and identity theft Full list of tax forms and instructions Need help? You can authorize someone to represent you before the IRS or inspect and/or receive confidential tax information. You may be eligible for free help from the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS). See if you qualify for help from a Low Income Taxpayer Clinic. You can request a copy of your notice or letter in Braille or large print. If you can’t find what you need online, call the telephone number on your notice or letter.
