Identity theft protection

Protecting Taxpayers from ID-Theft-Related Refund Fraud
The IRS is working diligently with state tax authorities and the tax industry to address tax-related identity theft and refund fraud. As part of the Security Summit effort, stronger protections for taxpayers and the nation’s tax system have gone into effect for the 2016 tax filing season.

Despite these security improvements to fight identity theft issues, the IRS will still process nine out of 10 federal refunds within 21 days. States have their own refund processing time frames that may vary, and some states may make additional reviews to ensure refunds are being issued properly.

Tips to protect you from becoming a victim of identity theft

1. Don’t carry your Social Security card or any documents with your SSN or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) on it.
2. Don’t give a business your SSN or ITIN just because they ask. Give it only when required.
3. Protect your financial information.
4. Check your credit report every 12 months.
5. Secure personal information in your home.
6. Protect your personal computers by using firewalls, anti-spam/virus software, update security patches and change passwords for Internet accounts.
7. Don’t give personal information over the phone, through the mail or on the Internet unless you have initiated the contact or you are sure you know who you are dealing with

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