Form 13873-E: Irs Identity Theft Affidavit Explained

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Identity theft is a growing concern in the United States, and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is no exception. If you're a victim of identity theft, you may need to file Form 13873-E, also known as the IRS Identity Theft Affidavit. In this article, we'll explain what this form is, how to fill it out, and what you need to do to protect yourself from identity theft.

The Importance of Reporting Identity Theft

Identity theft can have serious consequences, including financial loss, damage to your credit score, and even tax-related issues. If you're a victim of identity theft, it's essential to report it to the IRS as soon as possible. The IRS takes identity theft seriously and has implemented various measures to prevent and detect it.

What is Form 13873-E?

Form 13873-E is a document that you'll need to fill out and submit to the IRS if you're a victim of identity theft. The form is used to report the identity theft and to request that the IRS mark your account to prevent further fraudulent activity. The form is also used to request an IP PIN (Identity Protection PIN) to verify your identity when filing your tax return.

Who Needs to File Form 13873-E?

You'll need to file Form 13873-E if you're a victim of identity theft and you've received a notice from the IRS indicating that your identity has been compromised. You may also need to file the form if you've been unable to file your tax return because of identity theft.

How to Fill Out Form 13873-E

Filling out Form 13873-E is relatively straightforward. You'll need to provide your personal and contact information, including your name, address, phone number, and email address. You'll also need to provide a detailed description of the identity theft, including the date it occurred and the type of identity theft that occurred.

Here's a step-by-step guide to filling out Form 13873-E:

1. Section 1: Taxpayer Information: Provide your personal and contact information, including your name, address, phone number, and email address.
2. Section 2: Identity Theft Information: Provide a detailed description of the identity theft, including the date it occurred and the type of identity theft that occurred.
3. Section 3: Supporting Documentation: Attach any supporting documentation, such as a police report or a notice from the IRS.
4. Section 4: Request for IP PIN: Request an IP PIN to verify your identity when filing your tax return.

What to Do After Filing Form 13873-E

After filing Form 13873-E, the IRS will review your case and take steps to protect your identity. This may include marking your account to prevent further fraudulent activity and issuing an IP PIN to verify your identity when filing your tax return.

Tips for Preventing Identity Theft

While filing Form 13873-E can help protect you from identity theft, it's also essential to take steps to prevent identity theft from occurring in the first place. Here are some tips to help you prevent identity theft:

• Monitor your credit report: Check your credit report regularly to detect any suspicious activity.
• Use strong passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for all of your online accounts.
• Be cautious of phishing scams: Be cautious of emails or phone calls that ask for your personal or financial information.
• Keep your personal information private: Keep your personal information, such as your Social Security number, private and secure.

Conclusion

Filing Form 13873-E is an essential step in protecting yourself from identity theft. By reporting identity theft to the IRS and requesting an IP PIN, you can help prevent further fraudulent activity and protect your identity. Remember to take steps to prevent identity theft from occurring in the first place, such as monitoring your credit report, using strong passwords, and keeping your personal information private.

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