Tax Identity Theft & Fraud
Resources and educational guidance for taxpayers impacted by tax-related identity theft and fraudulent filings. Educational content only — not tax or legal advice.
If you believe you are a current victim of tax identity theft, contact the IRS Identity Theft Hotline immediately at 1-800-908-4490. This page provides educational information only and is not a substitute for professional guidance.
Articles in This Section
Tax Identity Theft Warning Signs
Tax identity theft occurs when someone uses your Social Security Number (SSN) to file a fraudulent tax return and claim your refund. The IRS processes millions of returns each year and fraudulent filings can be difficult to detect in advance.
Common warning signs include: the IRS rejects your e-filed return because a return has already been filed with your SSN; you receive an IRS notice for a return you didn't file; you receive a refund you didn't expect; or the IRS contacts you about income from an employer you've never worked for.
If you suspect tax identity theft, acting quickly is important — the IRS has a dedicated Identity Theft Hotline and specific procedures for victims.
Key Takeaways
IRS IP PIN Guide
An IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a six-digit number that prevents someone else from filing a tax return using your Social Security Number.
The IP PIN is issued annually and must be included with your tax return each year. Without the correct IP PIN, an electronically filed return with your SSN will be rejected.
Starting in 2021, the IRS opened the IP PIN program to all taxpayers — not just confirmed identity theft victims. Enrollment is voluntary and available through the IRS website.
An IP PIN significantly reduces the risk of a fraudulent return being filed using your SSN.
Key Takeaways
What To Do If Someone Filed Using Your SSN
If the IRS rejects your electronically filed return because a return has already been filed with your SSN, you need to take immediate action.
First, file a paper return for the year in question. Include a completed Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit) with your paper return. The IRS will investigate and resolve the duplicate filing issue, which typically takes several months.
Report the identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov and to your state tax agency as well. Place a fraud alert with the credit bureaus and monitor your credit reports.
The IRS will work with you to resolve the fraudulent return and ensure your legitimate return is processed, though the process can take 6 to 18 months.
Key Takeaways
Hive Tax Book
Identity Theft Resources Included in Hive Tax Protection™
Hive Tax Protection™ members receive identity theft resource guidance and access to trusted professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take the IRS to resolve a tax identity theft case?
IRS identity theft cases typically take 6 to 18 months to resolve. The IRS will send you updates through the mail and eventually issue a resolution notice.
Will I still get my refund if someone filed fraudulently using my SSN?
Yes. Once the IRS resolves the identity theft case and processes your legitimate return, you will receive your refund. However, the process can take significantly longer than a standard return.
Is the IRS IP PIN program safe?
Yes. The IRS IP PIN program is a free, voluntary program that adds a significant layer of protection against tax-related identity theft. It is recommended for all taxpayers.
Related Resources
Educational content only. Not tax or legal advice. If you are experiencing active identity theft, contact the IRS at 1-800-908-4490 and the FTC at IdentityTheft.gov.