As we step into a new year, now is the perfect time to start fresh-and that includes safeguarding yourself against tax identity theft. Everyone is at risk of falling victim to tax identity theft, and thousands of Americans are impacted by this crime each year. Fraudsters often target taxpayers early in the year, hoping to take advantage of the hustle and bustle of busy tax season preparations.
According to the IRS, tax-related identity theft occurs when someone uses your stolen personal information, including your Social Security number (SSN), to file a tax return claiming a fraudulent refund. A successful scammer can create an online return using your SSN, even if they don’t spell your name right. Once the fraudulent account is established, they can not only use it to file taxes on your behalf and receive your refund but also to receive future payments from the federal government. The criminals are adept at using accounts that funnel money into prepaid debit cards so that it is untraceable and unrecoverable.
Below are a few tips to help you avoid becoming the next victim and help protect yourself against tax-related identity theft.
Keep your Social Security number (SSN) or individual tax identification number (ITIN) in a secure location. When asked for these numbers, be skeptical and verify that it is a legitimate need. Additionally, keep your home computer security software up to date, and run regular software updates on your connected devices, including the seemingly less risky ones like smartwatches.
The sooner you submit your tax return, the harder it is for fraudsters to submit a fake one in your name. As soon as you have the necessary documentation, go ahead and take care of this right away. Always file taxes through a reputable service and use a secure internet connection if filing online; avoid transmitting such sensitive information through public Wi-Fi. You may consider filing through IRS Free File Guided Tax Software. If you feel more comfortable relying on a professional to prepare your tax return, choose your tax preparer with care.
Regularly check account statements for any unusual activity. Your first sign of tax identity theft this season will usually be a letter from the IRS after filing your return, informing you that one has already been filed using your SSN. Year-round, expected payments that are not received are another sign to watch for. Also be mindful of any tax reporting documents from employers you never worked with. Rather than ignoring them, follow up to ensure someone else hasn’t stolen your identity and taken a job using your information.
Beware of unsolicited emails, phone calls, or text messages asking for personal information, and verify the source before you respond. Remember, the IRS will never initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text, or social media to request personal or financial information, including your taxpayer Identity Protection PIN, nor will they ever threaten with lawsuits or arrest.
Visit the IRS online account website to create your account now and monitor it regularly. While a lot of personal information is required to create the account, once you have done so, you can monitor your tax activity throughout the year, including if a return has been filed in your name. Through your online IRS account, you can then request an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN). Once established, the PIN must be included on your federal tax return in order for it to be processed as valid.
Remember, even with all these precautions, tax-related identity theft can still happen. If you suspect your identity has been compromised or you suspect identity theft for any reason, our Identity Theft Recovery Advocates are here to help you recover and mitigate any damage.
Stay Informed and Stay Safe!