Identity theft is scary. It’s even scarier when it involves the IRS. A “Sample Letter To IRS About Identity Theft” is a formal way to tell the IRS that someone has stolen your identity. You might need this letter if you suspect someone filed a fraudulent tax return using your information. It’s also useful if you receive notices from the IRS about something you didn’t do.
Writing to the IRS can feel daunting. What should you say? How should you say it? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
This article provides sample letters. These samples will make writing to the IRS easier. You can adapt them to fit your situation. Let’s get started.
Sample Letter To Irs About Identity Theft
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Internal Revenue Service
Identity Theft Affidavit
P.O. Box 9039
Andover, MA 01810-0939
Re: Identity Theft Affidavit – [Your Social Security Number]
Dear Sir or Madam:
I am writing to inform you that I believe I am a victim of identity theft. I suspect someone has used my personal information, including my Social Security number, for fraudulent purposes with the IRS.
I became aware of this issue on [Date] when [Explain how you discovered the identity theft. Be specific. For example: “I received a notice from the IRS regarding suspicious activity,” or “I attempted to file my tax return electronically and it was rejected because a return had already been filed using my Social Security number.”]
I have already taken the following steps to protect myself:
- I filed a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov.
- I have placed a fraud alert on my credit reports with the three major credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.
- I have reviewed my credit reports for any unauthorized accounts or activity.
I am enclosing the following documents with this letter:
- Copy of my driver’s license or other government-issued photo identification.
- Copy of my Social Security card.
- Copy of the FTC Identity Theft Report (if applicable).
- Any other documents that support my claim of identity theft (e.g., IRS notices, police report).
I request that the IRS take the necessary steps to investigate this matter and prevent any further fraudulent activity using my identity. I would appreciate it if you could provide me with updates on the status of your investigation.
Thank you for your time and attention to this important matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
How to Write Sample Letter To IRS About Identity Theft
Subject Line: Grabbing Their Attention
- Craft a subject line that’s both concise and urgent. Think “Identity Theft Affidavit – [Your Name] – [SSN]” or “Urgent: Identity Theft Notification – [Tax Year]”.
- A lackluster subject line might relegate your correspondence to the hinterlands of their inbox. Aim for clarity and impact.
Salutation: Establishing Formal Comity
- Avoid overly casual greetings. Opt for “Dear Internal Revenue Service” or “To Whom It May Concern”.
- While the IRS isn’t known for its warm embrace, maintaining a professional demeanor is paramount.
Introduction: Setting the Stage for Your Predicament
- Clearly state that you are a victim of identity theft. For instance, “I am writing to inform you that I have been a victim of identity theft, which has compromised my tax filings.”
- Include your name, Social Security number (SSN), address, and the tax year(s) affected. This provides crucial context.
- Succinctly describe how you discovered the identity theft. Did you receive a suspicious notice, or was your return rejected?
Body Paragraph 1: Detailing the Infraction
- Elaborate on the fraudulent activity. “An unauthorized tax return was filed using my SSN for the tax year 2022, resulting in a refund I did not request or receive.”
- Mention any specific discrepancies you’ve identified, such as incorrect income, false deductions, or an unfamiliar refund destination.
- The devil is in the details. Providing perspicacious specifics strengthens your case.
Body Paragraph 2: Actions Undertaken and Documentation
- Outline the steps you’ve already taken to rectify the situation. “I have filed a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and obtained an Identity Theft Report.”
- List all enclosed documentation. This might include a copy of your FTC Identity Theft Report, Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit), driver’s license, and proof of address.
- Assertively state your cooperation: “I am fully committed to cooperating with the IRS in resolving this matter comprehensively.”
Request for Remediation: Articulating Your Expectations
- Explicitly state what you expect the IRS to do. “I request that the IRS investigate this fraudulent activity, correct my tax records, and prevent any further misuse of my SSN.”
- Request written confirmation that the issue has been resolved and that your account is no longer flagged for fraudulent activity.
- Clarity is king. Leave no room for misinterpretation.
Closing: A Cordial Farewell
- End with a formal closing. “Sincerely” or “Respectfully” are appropriate.
- Include your typed or printed name, phone number, and email address.
- Retain a copy of the letter and all enclosed documents for your records. Due diligence is indispensable.
Frequently Asked Questions: Sample Letter to IRS About Identity Theft
This section addresses common inquiries regarding sending a sample letter to the IRS concerning identity theft. It aims to provide clarity on the process and its implications.
1. What information should I include in my sample letter to the IRS?
Your letter should include your name, address, Social Security number, a detailed description of the identity theft incident, the tax years affected, and copies of any supporting documentation, such as police reports or FTC affidavits.
2. Where should I send my sample letter to the IRS?
Mail your letter to the IRS address specified for identity theft issues, which can be found on the IRS website or by calling the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit.
3. What if I don’t have all the information requested?
Provide as much information as possible. It is better to send a letter with partial information than to delay reporting the identity theft incident.
4. How long will it take for the IRS to respond to my letter?
The IRS aims to respond within a few weeks, but processing times can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the current workload.
5. Should I still file my taxes even if my identity has been stolen?
Yes, you should still file your tax return by the deadline. If you are unable to file on time due to identity theft issues, request an extension and explain the circumstances.
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