Saturday, February 21, 2015

What to do if your social security number was stolen by a thief who filed a tax return using that number?

 During the last year there were many different data breaches and some people's social security numbers have been stolen.  It appears that some thieves filed returns using the stolen social security numbers.  If this happens the person who tries to file an electronic  return using H&R Block or TurboTax software they will get the following error:

IRS records show the spouse's Social Security number (SSN) on this return is the same as the primary taxpayer's SSN on another return already filed this year. Double-check your spouse's SSN. Fix any issues and e-file again. Otherwise, you'll have to file a paper return.

What to do if this happens?

1. Call H&R Bock (1-800-472-5625) told them of the issue

2. Call IRS (1-800-829-1040) had them flag the SS#
IRS states that people need to mail completed return, a copy of police report or Form 14039 Identity Theft Affidavit http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f14039.pdf, copy of Drivers License or passport or SS card.

3. Call Equifax and had them put an alert on the SS# (They notify Experian and TransUnion as well)

4. Call Social Security Administration and notify them (1-800-772-1213)

5. File with FTC https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/Information#crnt&panel1-1

6. File a police report of a possible identity theft

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