Want to know the best way to ensure no one else files a tax return using your identity?

Cyber theft is a trillion dollar industry–

And with the IRS offering e-file… it is super important to ensure that your identification number isn’t used by thieves on the internet.
Luckily the IRS has made an effort to give you the option to do just that.

TIPS

The IRS will never contact you about your refund or amount due through the telephone or email.
You will always receive notice from the IRS via “snail-mail”.

This means that if you are contacted by an IRS agent without requesting a call, you should immediately hang up.

Any letters or notices received in the mail should be shared with your accountant to validate the claim and start any communication process necessary for-or requested by the IRS.

If you are ever unsure about something you received or heard about on social media, contact your accountant.

Get Started
It’s Super Simple:

1. Go to:
   IRS.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/get-an-identity-protection-pin
2. Request an Identity Protection PIN
3. Use your unique pin (known only by you and the IRS) to file your tax return with your accountant.

• What will you need to get your IP PIN?
  The IRS Provides these tips to be prepared when requesting your IP PIN:
  • Have your valid Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number handy.
  • Know your adjusted gross income: Your AGI on your last filed return must be below $79,000 for Individuals or $158,000 for Married Filing Joint.
  • Have access to a phone

Also, be sure to NEVER send documents with your sensitive info over the internet without using a secure, encrypted portal.

What Happens if You Are A Victim?

Millions of tax returns are filed with stolen Taxpayer Identity Numbers each year.

If your TIN is stolen and used, when you go to file, your return will get rejected as a duplicate and you will have to file by paper and notify the IRS.

The process of paper filing is much more time consuming and if you are expecting a refund, you will have to wait for your paper return to make it to the Department of The Treasury, get sorted, reviewed & processed, and answer any questions they may have about your theft claim.

Be proactive and get your IP PIN today!

Read More From The IRS Here

If you have questions, let me know!
I am happy to help.

Angelica@FinancialBookworm.com