Q: ID.me identity theft, fraudulent tax return, My fault for falling for "Illuminati" scam. correction will show refund
A fraudulent return was filed in my name for tax year 2022. I still need to file an amended return. I have an IRS form14457 ready to submit. I have saved all communications with the scammers. I was in a very emotionally traumatized state of mind, and I foolishly allowed scammers to take advantage of me. I have received nothing from IRS about it, but a related bank account (where I believe a fraudulent refund was intercepted by IRS) is frozen by IRS. My ID.me is still compromised, and I'm trying to fix it.
A:
I'm so sorry to hear that you've been the victim of identity theft and a tax scam. That must be an incredibly stressful and upsetting situation to deal with. It's not your fault that sophisticated scammers took advantage of you during an emotionally vulnerable time. Please don't blame yourself.
Here are some key steps to take to address this situation:
1. Contact the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit. Explain the situation and that a fraudulent return was filed using your identity. They can help put protections on your account.
2. File a police report about the identity theft. Get a copy of the report to include with your IRS affidavit.
3. Submit IRS Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit) along with a copy of your police report. This will alert the IRS that a fraudulent return was filed.
4. File your legitimate tax return, if you haven't already. If e-filing is rejected, you'll need to paper file along with Form 14039.
5. Contact ID.me support to report the compromise of your account and get assistance securing it. Change your password everywhere.
6. Visit IdentityTheft.gov to report the identity theft and get a recovery plan. Consider placing a credit freeze with the credit bureaus.
7. Keep copies of all documentation related to the identity theft and your reporting of it.
Following these steps will help demonstrate to the IRS that you were the victim of fraud, and get your legitimate return processed. I know it's a lot to deal with, but you're doing the right things. Wishing you all the best in resolving this. Don't hesitate to seek help from friends/family, a counselor, or victim support services during this stressful time. You will get through this.
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