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Discovering fraud or identity theft related to your tax return can be stressful. If you realize that your return was compromised, it’s important to take prompt action to amend the return and protect your financial information. This guide will walk you through the steps to amend your return in such situations.
Steps to Amend Your Tax Return Due to Fraud or Identity Theft
The IRS provides specific procedures for taxpayers who find that their return was filed fraudulently or if they are victims of identity theft. Follow these steps to correct the issue effectively.
1. Confirm the Fraud or Identity Theft
Before proceeding, verify that your return was indeed compromised. Common signs include receiving notices from the IRS about unfiled returns, notices of income you did not earn, or alerts about suspicious activity linked to your Social Security number.
2. Report the Identity Theft
Contact the IRS Identity Theft Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-908-4490. You should also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at identitytheft.gov. These steps help document the fraud and initiate protective measures.
3. File an Identity Theft Affidavit
Complete IRS Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit, to alert the IRS of the issue. Submit the form by mail or fax as instructed on the IRS website. This form helps prevent further fraudulent activity using your Social Security number.
4. Amend Your Tax Return
If you have already filed a return that was affected by fraud, you need to submit an amended return using IRS Form 1040-X. Include any corrected information and attach supporting documents, such as the identity theft affidavit.
Mail the amended return to the address listed in the instructions for Form 1040-X. Do not e-file an amended return if fraud is involved; mailing is recommended to ensure proper processing.
Additional Tips for Victims of Identity Theft
- Monitor your credit reports regularly for suspicious activity.
- Place a fraud alert or credit freeze with major credit bureaus.
- Keep records of all communications with the IRS and other agencies.
- Consider consulting a tax professional or legal advisor for guidance.
Taking swift action can help minimize the damage caused by fraud or identity theft. Stay vigilant and proactive to protect your financial identity and ensure your tax records are accurate.