The IRS 14039 form, officially known as the Identity Theft Affidavit, is utilized when an individual needs to report a suspicion or a confirmed case of identity theft that has affected their tax records. Filling out this form allows the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to take the necessary steps to protect the taxpayer's account and help resolve any fraudulent activity. To ensure your financial safety and start the process of safeguarding your identity, consider filling out the form by clicking the button below.
In the complex landscape of personal finance and tax administration, one of the lesser-known but critically important protections available to taxpayers is the IRS Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit. This form serves as a safeguard for individuals who suspect or have confirmed that their personal information has been compromised, leading to fraudulent tax return filings. It is a direct line of communication with the IRS, informing the agency of a potential breach in personal security, which can have far-reaching implications for an individual's financial health and tax responsibilities. By submitting this form, taxpayers essentially alert the IRS to scrutinize any subsequent filings more closely, thereby forestalling potential misuse of their identities in tax fraud schemes. The form's role in the broader effort to combat identity theft cannot be understated, providing a mechanism for victims to take swift and decisive action to protect their financial interests. Furthermore, the process of completing and submitting the form is an integral part of the recovery journey for those impacted by identity theft, setting in motion the IRS's protocols designed to assist affected taxpayers. Overall, the IRS Form 14039 stands as a pivotal tool in the fight against the pervasive and evolving threat of identity theft in the tax domain.
Form 14039
Department of the Treasury - Internal Revenue Service
OMB Number
(September 2021)
Identity Theft Affidavit
1545-2139
This affidavit is for victims of identity theft. Do not use this form if you have already filed a Form 14039.
The IRS process for assisting victims selecting Section B, Box 1 below is explained at irs.gov/victimassistance.
Get an IP PIN: We encourage everyone to opt-in to the Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN) program. If you don’t have an IP PIN you can get one by going to irs.gov/ippin. If unable to do so online, you may schedule an appointment at your closest Taxpayer Assistance Center by calling (844-545-5640). Or, if eligible you may use IRS Form 15227 to apply for an IP PIN by mail or FAX.
Section A - Check the following boxes in this section that apply to the specific situation you are reporting (required for all filers)
1. I am submitting this Form 14039 for myself
2. This Form 14039 is submitted in response to a ‘Notice’ or ‘Letter’ received from the IRS
•Provide ‘Notice’ or ‘Letter’ number(s) on the line to the right
•Check box 1 in Section B and see special mailing and faxing instructions on reverse side of this form.
3. I am submitting this Form 14039 on behalf of my ‘dependent child or dependent relative’
• Complete Section E on reverse side of this form.
4. I am submitting this Form 14039 on behalf of another person (other than my dependent child or dependent relative)
•Complete Section E on reverse side of this form. Section B – Reason For Filing This Form (required)
Check only ONE of the following boxes that apply to the person listed in Section C below. If the taxpayer in ‘Section C’ has previously submitted a Form 14039 to the IRS on the same affected tax year(s), there’s no need to submit another Form 14039.
1. Someone used my information to file taxes, including being incorrectly claimed as a dependent
2. I don’t know if someone used my information to file taxes, but I’m a victim of identity theft
Provide an explanation of the identity theft issue, how it is related to your tax account, how you became aware of it and provide relevant dates. If needed, attach additional information and/or pages to this form.
Section C – Name and Contact Information of Identity Theft Victim (required)
Victim’s last name
First name
Middle
Taxpayer Identification Number
initial
(provide 9-digit Social Security Number)
Current mailing address (apartment or suite number and street, or P.O.
Current city
State
ZIP code
Box) If deceased, provide last known address
-
Tax Year(s) you experienced identity theft (if not known, enter ‘Unknown’ in one box below)
What is the last year you filed a
return
Address used on last filed tax return (if different than ‘Current’)
City (on last tax return filed)
Names used on last filed tax return
Telephone number with
area code (optional) If deceased, indicate
Best time(s) to call
(if different than ‘Current’)
‘Deceased’
Home phone number
Cell phone number
Language in which you would like to be contacted
English
Spanish
Section D – Penalty of Perjury Statement and Signature (required)
Under penalty of perjury, I declare that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, the information entered on this Form 14039 is true, correct, complete, and made in good faith.
Signature of taxpayer, or representative, conservator, parent or guardian
Date signed
Submit this completed form to either the mailing address or the FAX number provided on the reverse side of this form.
Catalog Number 52525A
www.irs.gov
Form 14039 (Rev. 9-2021)
Section E – Representative, Conservator, Parent or Guardian Information (required if completing Form 14039 on someone else’s behalf)
Check only ONE of the following five boxes next to the reason you are submitting this form
1. The taxpayer is deceased and I am the surviving spouse
• No attachments are required, including death certificate.
2. The taxpayer is deceased and I am the court-appointed or certified personal representative
• Attach a copy of the court certificate showing your appointment.
3. The taxpayer is deceased and a court-appointed or certified personal representative has not been appointed
•
Attach copy of death certificate or formal notification from a government office informing next of kin of the decedent’s death.
Indicate your relationship to decedent:
Child
Parent/Legal Guardian
Other
4. The taxpayer is unable to complete this form and I am the appointed conservator or have Power of Attorney/Declaration of Representative authorization per IRS Form 2848
•Attach a copy of documentation showing your appointment as conservator or POA authorization.
•If you have an IRS issued Centralized Authorization File (CAF) number, enter the nine-digit number:
5. The person is my dependent child or my dependent relative
By checking this box and signing below you are indicating that you are an authorized representative, as parent, guardian or legal guardian, to file a legal document on the dependent’s behalf.
• Indicate your relationship to person:
Fiduciary Relationship per IRS Form 56
Power of Attorney
Representative's name
Last name
Middle initial
Representative’s current mailing address (city, town or post
office, state, and ZIP code)
Representative’s telephone number
Instructions for Submitting this Form
Submit this completed and signed form to the IRS via Mail or FAX to specialized IRS processing areas dedicated to assist you. In Section C of this form, be sure to include the Social Security Number in the ‘Taxpayer Identification Number’ field.
Help us avoid delays:
•Choose one method of submitting this form either by Mail or by FAX, not both.
•Provide clear and readable photocopies of any additional information you may choose to provide.
•Note that ‘tax returns’ may not be submitted to either the mailing address or FAX number.
Submitting by Mail
Submitting by FAX
If you checked Box 1 in Section B in response to a notice or
If you checked Box 1 in Section B of Form 14039 and are
letter received from the IRS, return this form and if possible, a
submitting this form in response to a notice or letter received
copy of the notice or letter to the address contained in the
from the IRS. If it provides a FAX number, you should send
notice or letter.
there.
If you checked Box 1 in Section B of Form 14039, are unable
If no FAX number is shown on the notice or letter, follow the
to file your tax return electronically because the primary and/
mailing instructions on the notice or letter.
or secondary SSN was misused, attach this Form 14039 to the
Include a cover sheet marked ‘Confidential’.
back of your paper tax return and submit to the IRS location
If you checked Box 2 in Section B of Form 14039 (no current
where you normally file your tax return.
If you’ve already filed your paper return, submit this Form
tax-related issue), FAX this form toll-free to:
855-807-5720
14039 to the IRS location where you normally file. Refer to the
‘Where Do You File’ section of your return instructions or visit IRS.
gov and input the search term ‘Where to File’.
•If you checked Box 2 in Section B of Form 14039 (no current tax-related issue), mail this form to:
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Fresno, CA 93888-0025
Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Notice
Our legal authority to request the information is 26 U.S.C. 6001. The primary purpose of the form is to provide a method of reporting identity theft issues to the IRS so that the IRS may document situations where individuals are or may be victims of identity theft. Additional purposes include the use in the determination of proper tax liability and to relieve taxpayer burden. The information may be disclosed only as provided by 26 U.S.C. 6103. Providing the information on this form is voluntary. However, if you do not provide the information it may be more difficult to assist you in resolving your identity theft issue. If you are a potential victim of identity theft and do not provide the required substantiation information, we may not be able to place a marker on your account to assist with future protection. If you are a victim of identity theft and do not provide the required information, it may be difficult for IRS to determine your correct tax liability. If you intentionally provide false information, you may be subject to criminal penalties. You are not required to provide the information requested on a form that is subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act unless the form displays a valid OMB control number. Books or records relating to a form or its instructions must be retained as long as their contents may become material in the administration of any Internal Revenue law. Generally, tax returns and return information are confidential, as required by section 6103. Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 15 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. If you have comments concerning the accuracy of these time estimates or suggestions for making this form simpler, we would be happy to hear from you. You can write to the Internal Revenue Service, Tax Products Coordinating Committee, SE:W:CAR:MP:T:T:SP, 1111 Constitution Ave. NW, IR-6526, Washington, DC 20224. Do not send this form to this address. Instead, see the form for filing instructions. Notwithstanding any other provision of the law, no person is required to respond to, nor shall any person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply with, a collection of information subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act, unless that collection of information displays a currently valid OMB Control Number.
After one discovers their personal information has potentially been compromised, taking swift action is crucial to mitigate any possible financial impact. The IRS 14039 form serves as a tool for this purpose. Upon completion, it alerts the IRS to the situation, prompting them to flag the individual's account for fraudulent activity. This action is a preventive measure, designed to protect the individual's tax records and future filings. Completing the form involves a clear series of steps, designed to ensure that the IRS receives all the necessary information to effectively secure the taxpayer's account.
Once the IRS receives the completed 14039 form, they will begin the process of securing your tax account. This includes placing an identity theft indicator on your account to alert IRS personnel of the potential for fraudulent activity. While this process is underway, it's advisable to remain vigilant and monitor your credit reports and IRS correspondence for any signs of unauthorized activity. Remember, completing the IRS 14039 form is a critical step in safeguarding not only your personal information but also your financial wellbeing.
The IRS 14039 form, officially known as the Identity Theft Affidavit, is a document used to alert the IRS if someone has reason to believe or has confirmed that they have been a victim of tax-related identity theft. By filing this form, individuals can inform the IRS of the fraud and take steps to secure their tax records and prevent fraudulent tax returns from being filed in their name.
You should file the IRS 14039 form if:
There are a few steps involved in filing the IRS 14039 form:
No, there is no filing fee to submit the IRS 14039 form. The process of notifying the IRS about potential or actual identity theft is entirely free.
The processing time for the IRS 14039 form can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the IRS's current workload. Generally, it can take approximately 180 days to resolve identity theft cases, but some may take longer. The IRS will contact you if additional information is needed or to inform you of the resolution.
While waiting for your IRS 14039 form to be processed, you should:
After the IRS receives your 14039 form, they will begin an investigation into your case. You will be assigned a unique identity protection personal identification number (IP PIN) that you will use to file future tax returns. This number helps prevent someone else from filing a tax return with your SSN. The IRS will also place an identity theft indicator on your tax account to monitor for any suspicious activity.
As of the last update, the IRS does not accept the 14039 form electronically. You must print out the form, complete it, and mail it to the IRS with the required documentation.
If you need help completing the IRS 14039 form or have questions about tax-related identity theft, you can:
Filling out the IRS 14039 form, known as the Identity Theft Affidavit, is a critical step for victims of identity theft to inform the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) about their situation. However, mistakes can occur during this process, potentially delaying the resolution. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Not checking the correct reason for filing the form. The IRS 14039 form has specific boxes that applicants need to check to indicate whether they are submitting the form in response to a notice from the IRS or as a proactive measure after experiencing or suspecting identity theft. Choosing the wrong option can direct your form to the wrong processing queue.
Failing to provide all necessary documentation. Alongside the 14039 form, victims of identity theft are often required to submit additional documentation, such as a copy of their Social Security card, driver's license, or passport. Omitting these documents can cause delays.
Omitting Section B when applicable. This section is specifically for victims whose identity theft issues extend beyond their tax records. Neglecting to complete this section if it's relevant to your situation can result in incomplete processing of your case.
Using incorrect personal information. It is crucial to enter your current, correct personal information on the form, especially your Social Security Number. Any discrepancies can lead to further confusion and delay the resolution of your case.
Not signing and dating the form. An unsigned or undated form is considered incomplete by the IRS and will not be processed. This simple but critical step is often overlooked.
Incorrectly assuming the form's submission will resolve all issues. Submitting form 14039 alerts the IRS to your identity theft issue but doesn't address other potential problems arising from the theft, such as issues with your credit report. It's important to follow up with other relevant organizations.
Additionally, here are some key points to ensure the process goes smoothly:
Double-check the form for accuracy and completeness before submitting.
Use the most recent version of the IRS 14039 form to ensure that you're providing all the information the IRS currently requires.
Keep a copy of the completed form and any attached documents for your records.
Consider sending the form via certified mail to have proof of the date it was sent and received.
When an individual suspects or becomes aware that their identity has been compromised and misused for tax purposes, the IRS 14039 form, or the Identity Theft Affidavit, becomes a critical document to fill out and submit to the Internal Revenue Service. This form is part of a broader ecosystem of legal and financial documentation, often necessitated by the unfortunate event of identity theft. Such documents serve various roles, from reporting the theft to different agencies, to securing one’s finances, and to rectifying any inaccuracies in tax records and credit reports that the theft may have caused. Here is a brief overview of other forms and documents frequently used alongside the IRS 14039 form.
Navigating the aftermath of identity theft can be a daunting process, filled with numerous steps and paperwork. Many victims find themselves managing a variety of forms and documents in an effort to rectify their financial and legal standing. Among these, the IRS 14039 form is a pivotal first step toward reclaiming one's identity and financial integrity. Understanding the purpose and use of each accompanying document can significantly streamline this recovery process, ensuring a thorough and effective response to the theft.
FTC Identity Theft Report - This document, similar to IRS Form 14039, is used to report instances of identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission. Both forms help in documenting the occurrence of identity theft, aiming to safeguard the victim’s financial and personal information.
SSA-7008 - The SSA-7008 form, used to correct Social Security earnings records, shares a purpose with the IRS 14039 in addressing inaccuracies tied to personal information. Individuals use the SSA-7008 to ensure their earnings records are accurate, preventing potential future issues with benefits.
Form W-7 - IRS Form W-7 is used to apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). It's similar to Form 14039 in that it deals with tax-related identification issues, though the W-7 focuses on obtaining an ID number for those who don’t qualify for a Social Security Number.
FD-258 - The FBI’s FD-258 card is used for fingerprinting, often in contexts of identity verification or criminal background checks. Like IRS Form 14039, it serves as a tool in confirming an individual's identity, aiding in the prevention or resolution of identity fraud.
Form 8822 - IRS Form 8822 is used to report a change of address. Similarly to Form 14039, it helps in maintaining up-to-date personal information in IRS records, ensuring that tax-related documents and refunds are sent to the correct address, thereby preventing potential misuse of those documents.
Form 1040-X - This form is for amending previously filed income tax returns. It's related to Form 14039 in its correctional nature, allowing taxpayers to correct mistakes and ensure their tax records accurately reflect their financial history, potentially including issues stemming from identity theft.
Credit Freeze Request - Although not an official IRS document, a credit freeze request to credit bureaus is essential for victims of identity theft, similar to submitting Form 14039. Both actions are proactive measures to protect one's financial integrity by restricting access to credit reports and tax filings.
Form I-9 - The Employment Eligibility Verification form, while primarily for employment verification, involves confirming an individual's identity and eligibility to work in the U.S. Like Form 14039, it plays a role in safeguarding personal information, albeit in an employment context.
Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion Fraud Alert Requests - Requesting fraud alerts from these major credit bureaus is in line with the goals of IRS Form 14039, aiming to prevent further misuse of personal information. Both actions alert institutions to verify identities more thoroughly before extending credit or processing tax returns.
Filling out the IRS 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit, requires careful attention to details and a clear understanding of the process. This form is pivotal for informing the IRS if someone has used your personal information without your permission for tax purposes. Below are essential do's and don'ts to consider when completing this crucial document.
Report the identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov before filling out the form to have a reference for your case.
Ensure your information is accurate and up-to-date, including your Social Security Number (SSN), Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), and contact details.
Explain your case clearly and concisely in the section provided, including any evidence or circumstances of the identity theft.
Attach a copy of your police report or the FTC Identity Theft Report to strengthen your case, if available.
Sign and date the form. An electronic signature is not accepted, so you need to physically sign the document.
Use the IRS's secure fax number or mailing address provided in the instructions to submit your form to protect your information.
Keep a copy of the completed form and any correspondence with the IRS for your records.
Monitor your credit reports and IRS correspondence for any further suspicious activity.
Contact the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 800-908-4490 if you have any questions or need assistance.
Remain patient, as resolving identity theft issues can take time.
Don't delay in responding to any IRS notice by filing Form 14039 promptly. Time is of the essence.
Don't include sensitive personal information, like your full SSN or ITIN, in non-secure communications.
Don't file Form 14039 if you haven't experienced tax-related identity theft. This form is specifically for taxpayers whose identities have been compromised in relation to their federal tax records.
Don't forget to check your state tax implications. Some states may require a separate notification or form.
Don't use the form to report lost or stolen cards that haven't been fraudulently used on your tax return.
Don't neglect to inform your tax preparer about the situation if you use one.
Don't send your form through email, as it's not secure and could further compromise your information.
Don't ignore letters from the IRS asking for verification of your identity after you've submitted Form 14039. These are important and require prompt attention.
Don't underestimate the importance of protecting your personal information moving forward. Take measures to secure your data.
Don't hesitate to seek professional legal help if the situation escalates or becomes too complex to handle on your own.
When it comes to the IRS and its forms, the waters can often appear murky. The IRS 14039 form, intended for identity theft victims to report fraudulent use of their personal information in tax filings, is no stranger to misunderstandings. Here are seven common misconceptions about this form, clarified to help streamline the process for those unluckily caught in such a predicament.
Filing the Form 14039 Is Only for Those Who Owe Taxes: Contrary to popular belief, the Form 14039 should be filed by anyone who suspects or has confirmed that their identity has been used fraudulently for tax purposes, regardless of their tax situation. It serves to alert the IRS of the identity theft issue, not to settle tax debts.
It’s a Complicated Process: While dealing with identity theft can be overwhelming, the IRS has streamlined the process of filing Form 14039. Clear instructions are provided, and assistance is available both online and through dedicated phone lines, making it more manageable than many people fear.
The Form Can Be Filed Electronically: As of the current guidelines, Form 14039 cannot be filed electronically. It must be submitted either via mail or fax. This is a security measure to help protect sensitive personal information, even though it might seem counterintuitive in our digital age.
Once Filed, the Issue Is Resolved Immediately: Filing Form 14039 is a critical step in the right direction, but it’s not an instant fix. The IRS takes these submissions seriously and conducts a thorough review, which means resolution times can vary. Patience and cooperation with any further IRS requests are key.
The IRS Will Initiate Contact via Phone or Email about Form 14039: The IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers about Form 14039 through phone or email due to security concerns. Correspondence and updates about the case will be conducted via postal mail to prevent further fraudulent activities.
Submitting Form 14039 Leads to an Audit: There’s a common fear that reaching out to the IRS, especially regarding potential fraud, will trigger an audit. However, filling out Form 14039 is a protective measure against identity theft, not a red flag for auditing. It's designed to help the taxpayer, not to complicate their tax situation further.
Only Individuals Can File Form 14039: It's often assumed that Form 14039 is meant solely for individual taxpayers. However, in cases where a business’s information has been compromised and used fraudulently for tax purposes, there are provisions for businesses to report the incident to the IRS using this form as well.
Understanding what Form 14039 is for, how it's processed, and its implications can significantly ease the burden for victims of tax-related identity theft. It’s an essential tool in the IRS’s efforts to combat fraudulent activities and protect taxpayers' identities and assets.
The IRS 14039 form, officially known as the Identity Theft Affidavit, plays a crucial role when it comes to resolving issues of identity theft that affect your tax records. Navigating through the process of filling out and submitting this form can be overwhelming. However, understanding a few key points can help you manage this process more effectively and ensure your tax identity is protected and corrected. Here are some important takeaways:
Dealing with identity theft can be stressful, especially when it impacts your taxes. By taking swift action with Form 14039, you're making an important step toward resolving these issues and safeguarding your financial well-being. Remember, the IRS is there to help you through this process, and understanding how to properly use Form 14039 is your first line of defense against tax-related identity theft.
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