Photo of Dr. Nikia Owens, Ph.D, Photo credit: Laura Elam
After you complete the immediate steps listed in Part One, implement additional protections like the IRS Identity Protection PIN program. Knowing what to expect during resolution helps you stay organized.
The IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)
The six-digit IP PIN is added to your tax return each year. It serves as a security code confirming you, not an impostor, filed your return. Without it, any return filed in your name is rejected.
Who Is Eligible?
All taxpayers can now enroll in the IRS IP PIN program. You do not need to be an identity theft victim to opt in.
How to Obtain an IP PIN
To obtain an IP PIN, sign in to your IRS Online Account at IRS.gov/ippin and complete the identity verification using ID.me. If you cannot verify online, schedule an in-person visit to an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center.
Your IP PIN changes every year. The IRS will issue a new one each January, which must be entered on your return each filing season.
| Important: Your IP PIN should never be shared with anyone in response to an unsolicited request. If your tax professional asks for it in order to complete your return, that is appropriate. However, sharing it with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly is a security risk. |
| Have you not signed up for an IP PIN yet? It takes minutes and provides significant protection. Ask your CWF tax professional how to set it up, or book a consultation with a CWF team today. |
IP PIN for Dependent Children
Parents can obtain IP PINs for their dependent children, including those who have already been victims of identity theft. This requires identity verification for the parent and documentation confirming your status as the child’s authorized representative. A tax professional can assist with navigating this process.
What to Expect After Reporting Tax Identity Theft
Tax identity theft cases are handled by the IRS Identity Theft Victim Assistance unit. The resolution process is thorough but time-consuming. Here is what to anticipate:
• A confirmation letter that your case has been opened, typically arriving several weeks after your report.
• An extended processing timeline. Identity theft cases routinely take 18 months or more to fully resolve.
• A dedicated case number to reference in all communications with the IRS.
• Resolution of your legitimate return once the fraudulent return has been identified and removed.
• Issuance of an IP PIN to protect your account in future filing seasons.
Staying organized is essential throughout this process. Respond promptly to all IRS correspondence and keep a record of every interaction, including dates, reference numbers, and the names of any IRS representatives you speak with.
Corrective Steps Summary
| Step | Action Required |
| 1 | Respond to any IRS notice immediately |
| 2 | File IRS Form 14039 — Identity Theft Affidavit |
| 3 | File your legitimate tax return by paper |
| 4 | Report to the FTC at IdentityTheft.gov |
| 5 | Contact the Social Security Administration |
| 6 | Place a credit freeze at all three credit bureaus |
| 7 | Enroll in the IRS IP PIN program |
| 8 | Monitor IRS correspondence and follow up on your case |
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How to Protect Yourself Going Forward
Prevention is the strongest long-term defense against tax identity theft. The following practices significantly reduce your exposure:
• File your return early each year, before a fraudster has the opportunity to file first.
• Enroll in the IRS IP PIN program. It is free and open to all taxpayers.
• Secure your mailbox and shred all documents containing your SSN or financial information.
• Be alert to phishing emails and phone scams impersonating the IRS. The IRS initiates contact by mail, not by phone or email.
• Use strong, unique passwords for your IRS.gov account and all financial accounts.
• Review your Social Security statement at SSA.gov regularly for any unfamiliar income entries.
• Check your children’s SSNs through the IRS each year if you have any concerns about misuse.
A Note for Philadelphia Taxpayers
Tax identity theft most often occurs at the federal level, but Philadelphia residents should also monitor local tax records for any unexpected updates. If you get an unexpected notice from the Philadelphia Department of Revenue concerning wages, returns, or account changes you did not authorize, act quickly and investigate the possibility of identity fraud.
Contact the Philadelphia Department of Revenue only through official channels at phila.gov. Avoid using contact information in suspicious messages.
| Dealing with suspected Philadelphia-level identity fraud as well? At CWF, our team understands both federal and Philadelphia tax requirements. Book a consultation today and let us help you address both simultaneously. |