Here’s what you need to do if someone uses your SSN to file taxes

If you’re among the 140 million individuals who have up to April 15 to file tax returns for 2024, it’s crucial to stay vigilant against identity theft.

Tax-related identity theft impacts thousands of taxpayers each year, with many individuals vulnerable to fraudsters who misuse Social Security Numbers (SSNs) to file fraudulent tax returns and claim refunds. If you suspect someone has used your SSN to file taxes, you need to act quickly and minimize the damage.  

Signs Someone Used Your SSN for Taxes

• If you e-file and the IRS rejects your return because a return has already been filed using your SSN, it’s a clear sign of fraud.
• You receive an unexpected letter from the IRS about a tax return you didn’t file.
•  You receive tax documents (W-2 or 1099) for income you didn’t earn. This could signal that someone else is using your SSN for employment or tax fraud.  
• The IRS may notify you that you owe taxes on unreported income, even though you never earned that money.
• You can’t file tax returns online, and the IRS flags your SSN as compromised.

Steps You Should Take Immediately in Case of Compromise

If you believe someone has used your SSN for tax fraud, follow these steps:

1. Contact the IRS. They will guide you through the next steps and may provide an IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) for future tax filings.

2. File Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit. Complete IRS Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit, and submit it to the IRS with a copy of your valid government-issued ID. This officially alerts the IRS and allows them to investigate.

3. File Your Tax Return by Mail. If your e-filed return was rejected due to a duplicate SSN filing, print and submit your tax return by mail along with Form 14039.

4. Review Your IRS Account. Create an online account at IRS.gov to check for any suspicious activity, such as unauthorized tax returns or changes to your account details.

5. Report the Identity Theft to the FTC. Go to IdentityTheft.gov and file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). This will generate a recovery plan and provide you with documentation to support your case.

6. Place a Fraud Alert on Your Credit Reports. Because SSN-related tax fraud can lead to broader identity theft, consider placing a fraud alert on your credit reports through one of the three major credit bureaus. Consider placing a credit freeze as well to prevent unauthorized access to your credit report.

7. Monitor Your Financial Accounts. Check your bank accounts, credit cards, and any financial statements for unauthorized transactions. Consider enrolling in an identity protection service to monitor your SSN for misuse.

8. Notify the Social Security Administration (SSA). While the SSA does not handle tax fraud cases, you can contact if your SSN was misused, to ensure the validity of the information in your Social Security record.

Here are some proactive measures you can take to avoid future compromise

• Use an IRS IP PIN: This is a special six-digit number that adds an extra layer of security when filing taxes.

Read more: Why Enrolling in the IRS Identity Protection PIN Program Is a Smart Move Before The Tax Season (Safety Tips Included)

• Try filing your tax return early to prevent unauthorized individuals from fraudulently using your SSN.
• Shred any sensitive documents before throwing them out
• Keep your SSN secure and only share it when absolutely necessary.
• Be wary of phishing scams, and remember that the IRS will never call, email, or text you asking for personal or financial information. If you receive suspicious communication, report it to [email protected].

Last, but not least, use security tools such as:

Bitdefender Scamio: Proactively detect scams before they can harm your identity and finances. It’s a FREE tool allowing you to bust scams and scammers in real time across multiple platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, web browser or Discord.

Bitdefender Link Checker: Verify the legitimacy of links in emails, messages, and online searches for free.

Bitdefender Total Security: Comprehensive protection against malware, phishing, and cyber threats.

Bitdefender Identity Theft Protection can help you fight identity crimes with combined fraud detection, real-time alerts and identity recovery services.  Our identity protection plans (US only) offer continuous monitoring of your SSN, financial accounts, and medical data against identity theft and fraud, alerting you to any suspicious activity.