Filing your tax go back can be demanding sufficient, however what takes place when your identity is stolen and used to report a fraudulent go back on your name? This can cause delays in receiving your refund, tax penalties, and an entire lot of hassle.

The excellent news is, the IRS takes identity robbery significantly and has applied measures to protect taxpayers and their refunds. This includes a method known as identification verification.

In this weblog publish, we’ll delve into the sector of identity verification and your tax return. We’ll discover:

  • Why identity verification is crucial.
  • When the IRS would possibly request identity verification.
  • How to verify your identification with the IRS.
  • Tips to shield yourself from tax-associated identification theft.

Why Identity Verification Matters

Tax identity robbery is a developing hassle, costing taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars each year. Criminals thieve non-public records like Social Security numbers and use them to report fraudulent tax returns, claiming refunds they are no longer entitled to.

Identity verification helps the IRS prevent these fraudulent returns from being processed. By verifying your identity, the IRS can make sure that the go back being filed is legitimate and that your refund is going to the rightful recipient – you!

When Might the IRS Request Identity Verification?

There are some of reasons why the IRS might request identity verification on your tax go back. Here are a few not unusual scenarios:

  • There’s a discrepancy between your tax go back and IRS information. This may want to consist of a mismatch in earnings suggested, deductions claimed, or dependents indexed.
  • You have a history of identity theft.
  • Your go back triggers a red flag for fraud. This ought to occur if you declare unusually high deductions or credits, or if your return is filed from an uncommon region.
  • You are filing electronically for the primary time.

How to Verify Your Identity with the IRS

If the IRS requests identification verification from you, they will typically touch you by way of mail. The letter will provide an explanation for why verification is wanted and offer commands on how to finish the system.

There are a few exclusive ways to confirm your identity with the IRS, depending on the scenario:

  • Respond with the aid of Mail: The IRS may additionally ask you to mail in a duplicate of sure documents, which include your driving force’s license, passport, or Social Security card.
  • Verify Online: In a few cases, you’ll be able to confirm your identification online via a stable IRS website. This choice is usually faster and greater handy than mailing in files.
  • Visit an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC): If you’re unable to verify your identity on-line or by way of mail, you can go to an IRS TAC in man or woman. Be certain to deliver all required documentation with you.

Tips to Protect Yourself from Tax-Related Identity Theft

Here are a few steps you can take to shield yourself from tax-related identity robbery:

  • File your tax go back electronically. Electronic filing is generally more steady than paper filing and permits for quicker fraud detection with the aid of the IRS.
  • Use robust passwords and PINs. Create complex passwords in your IRS online account and any tax software program you operate. Don’t share your passwords or PINs with everyone.
  • Be cautious about the facts you percentage on line and over the cellphone. Don’t deliver out your Social Security variety or different personal facts until you are in reality positive who you’re managing.
  • Shred any files containing your Social Security quantity earlier than throwing them away.
  • Monitor your credit document frequently. This let you pick out any suspicious interest that might indicate identification robbery.

The IRS is Here to Help

If you believe you studied that you have been a victim of tax-related identification theft, the IRS is right here to help. Here are a few sources:

By taking steps to defend your identification and knowledge the IRS identification verification manner, you can assist make sure a smooth and stable tax filing enjoy.

Subscribe to E-Mail Newsletters and Alerts