Why would someone file a tax return in my name?

Tax-related identity theft occurs when someone uses your stolen personal information, including your Social Security number, to file a tax return claiming a fraudulent refund. If you suspect you are a victim of identity theft, continue to pay your taxes and file your tax return, even if you must file a paper return.

How do I stop someone from filing taxes in my name?

10 Steps to Avoiding Tax-Return Identity Theft

1. Leave your Social Security card home.
2. Keep your SSN private.
3. Make your passwords work for you.
4. Protect against computer spam and viruses.
5. Keep financial information private.
6. Beware of phishing.
7. Shred bank and tax documents.
8. Reduce credit card solicitations.

Can someone file your taxes without your permission?

if you were not married or in a legally recognized common law marriage, she probably committed a criminal act by filing joint returns. you need to file your own returns for the open years – 2017 and prior are closed if no extension was filed.

How do I find out if my taxes have been filed by someone else?

IRS officials can review the current status of your tax return to determine whether or not someone has already filed a return using your identity. Contact the IRS at ​1-800-829-0433​ if you think someone has filed your taxes without your permission.

What to do if someone illegally claimed you on their taxes?

You should call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 to report the error and ask them how to proceed. This number is available 24/7 and will help you proceed in handling the error. In addition, you may want to print and mail your return because it generally takes 15 days for the IRS to update their records.

What do I do if I think someone is using my identity?

What Should I Do if I Think My Identity Has Been Stolen?

1. Contact one of the credit reporting agencies’ fraud alert departments and place a fraud alert on your credit report.
2. Tell the agency you think your identity has been stolen.
3. One call does it all.
4. Call 1-800-525-6285.
5. Visit www.equifax.com.
6. Call 1-888-397-3742.

What to do if someone files taxes in Your Name?

Once you’re aware that someone has filed in your name, fill out and send a Form 14039 immediately. This form will alert the IRS of the fraudulent return and begin the process of restoring your identity. It’s not too good to be true.

What happens if someone files a fraudulent tax return in Your Name?

Once you’re aware that someone has filed in your name, fill out and send a Form 14039 immediately. This form will alert the IRS of the fraudulent return and begin the process of restoring your identity.

What should I do if a tax return is already filed?

Be a smarter, better informed investor. If you attempt to file your return electronically and get a message that a return already has been filed under your name or Social Security number, file your return by paper along with an Identity Theft Affidavit, advises an IRS spokesperson.

What happens if someone files taxes with your Social Security number?

When you discover another a tax return has been filed with your Social Security number, you’ll use IRS Form 14039 to alert the IRS. When you complete this form, you’ll indicate that someone has stolen your identity and it has affected your tax account since they have filed a return using your identifying information.