The IRS is committed to working with taxpayers who are the victims of identity theft

The IRS has taken numerous steps to combat identity theft and protect taxpayers. They are continually looking at ways to increase data security and protect taxpayers' identities with assistance from our Identity Protection Specialized Unit. Identity theft cases are among the most complex ones we handle.

The IRS know identity theft is a frustrating process for victims. They take this issue very seriously and continue to expand on their robust screening process in order to stop fraudulent returns and protect innocent taxpayers.

Depending upon your personal circumstances, the information found here will cover a variety of scenarios involving identity theft, ranging from contacting us with a case of identity theft to providing tips to help keep your records safe.

• Victim of identity theft?
  Do you have reason to believe you are the victim of identity theft and your tax accounts have been affected?
  
  
• Lost or stolen wallet?
  Have you become the victim of identity theft? Here are places for help.
  
  
• Protect yourself
  Tips from the IRS to help protect yourself from identity theft
  
  
• IRS action on identity theft
  Steps the IRS is taking to prevent, detect and resolve identity theft cases
  
  
• Additional helpful resources
  IRS identity theft news and outreach
  
  
• Taxpayer Guide to Identity Theft
  A one-page guide for identity theft victims.
  
  
• Special Identity Theft Enforcement Efforts
  2013
  2012
  
  
• Law Enforcement Assistance Pilot Program
  Pilot program designed to aid law enforcement in investigating and prosecuting specific cases of identity theft.
  

  
  

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Remember:
The IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers by email to request personal or financial information.  This includes any type of electronic communication, such as text messages and social media channels.


Circular 230 Disclosure

Pursuant to the requirements of the Internal Revenue Service Circular 230, we inform you that, to the extent any advice relating to a Federal tax issue is contained in this communication, including in any attachments, it was not written or intended to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of (a) avoiding any tax related penalties that may be imposed on you or any other person under the Internal Revenue Code, or (b) promoting, marketing or recommending to another person any transaction or matter addressed in this communication