Tax Related Identity Theft
Article Submitted by: Roni Deutch

Now that tax season is here, people across the country are worrying about getting their tax return prepared and filed with the IRS. However, there is another issue that taxpayers have to worry about: tax-related identity theft. Fortunately, you can prevent becoming an identity theft victim by following a few instructions. The good news is, even if your identity is stolen the IRS will work with you to resolve the matter as quickly as possible.

Increased Risk

A few years ago, Nina Olson, the National Taxpayer Advocate made the startling revelation that between 2004 and 2007, the number of tax-related identity theft problems rose by 644%.

Erroneous Returns or Stolen Refunds

If you get a notice from the IRS indicating that more than one return was filled using your social security number (SSN), you will want to contact them immediately to find out if you are a victim of identity theft. Using erroneous returns, thieves can obtain refunds from the IRS in your name, a common tactic used by tax scammers. The IRS will work with you to resolve the problem, but it is important to contact them as soon as possible.

Employment Identity Theft

Double check your W-2 information. If you get a W-2 from an unknown employer or see wages that you did not earn on a notice from the IRS, you may .have a problem. If some one is working using your social security number and identity then you may be liable for any unpaid employment taxes. Again, contact the IRS Identity Theft Resource Center as soon as possible.

IRS Warnings

The IRS reminds taxpayers every year that they do not initiate communications through e-mail. They will send letters, and attempt to reach you over the phone, but they will never e-mail you asking for personal information. If you receive an e-mail from someone claiming to be the IRS, do not reply, do not open any attachments and do not click any links.

Phishing

The act of sending an e-mail to someone claiming to be an established enterprise (often the IRS) in an attempt to steal their identity is known as "phishing." If you ever get an email from the IRS requesting information about your finances, immediately forward the message to phishing@irs.gov.

Help from the IRS

Since tax-related identity theft has become such a serious issue for American taxpayers, in April of 2009 the IRS released IRS Form 14039 for taxpayers who have either experienced - or are at risk of - identity theft. It ensures that victims are not held responsible for fraudulent tax liabilities, minimizes the burden on the victim, and helps minimize the time to resolve the case. The IRS asserts that most cases are resolved in less than two months.

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBlast.com

About The Author:

The Tax Lady Roni Deutch and her law firm Roni Deutch, A Professional Tax Corporation have been helping taxpayers across the nation find IRS tax relief for over seventeen years. The firm has experienced tax lawyers who can fight IRS tax liens on your behalf.