Those who use the Internal Revenue system to steal money tend to focus on getting phony refunds.
Those who are into credit scams will use your identifying information to open accounts and borrow money, you may not aware of this activity for quite some time. Some will do both.
So where to start?
Don’t blame yourself. Unless you live in a cabin off the grid and pay cash for everything your data is in circulation and it is in jeopardy, usually through no fault of yours. So what to do?
Keep good files, keep them secure and keep vital information close at hand. You will need documents to start making your case.
About an IRS identity theft problem….
You may discover the problem when you receive a notice about how you and your spouse Jane or John Doe received an unwarranted refund. If you get a check you are not expecting, do not cash the check.
Problem is, you are not married to Jane or John, you may be single or married to a real spouse for a long time. So…..
FIRST, pull out your last three tax returns and call the number on the IRS notice. Immediately.
SECOND, check your financial accounts for theft, and start the process of checking your credit report. Consider fraud protection if you do not have it on your bank and credit accounts.
THIRD, file an IRS form 14039. If possible do not wait for the form to arrive in the mail, you or your tax preparer can get a form on-line. File according to instruction via certified mail. Make several copies.
If you have Internet access go to http://www.irs.gov/Individuals/Identity-Protection for a big pile of resources.
FOURTH, if there is money missing or credit reports opened in your name file a police report to get this on the record. More on this in another post.
The IRS is working very hard to counter these problems, but the con artists stay ahead of them.
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