Tax Tip: What to Do If You Get an Identity Theft Letter From the IRS

The IRS can scan tax returns for potential fraud, and if a tax return seems suspicious, they will flag it for further review. In these cases, the IRS will send the taxpayer a letter notifying them of potential identity theft. Because the tax return won’t be processed until you respond to the letter, it’s essential to follow the steps outlined. The letter will likely have everything you need to know.

The three different types of identity theft letters that the IRS may send out include:

1. A letter that asks the taxpayer to verify their identity online
2. A letter that asks the taxpayer to call the IRS to verify their identity
3. A letter that asks the taxpayer to verify their identity in person.

* This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific, individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS.gov ⁷

Footnotes and Sources

7. ^{IRS.gov, April 12, 2022}