[1]We have had two clients in the last two week be victims of a fraudulent return filed with the State. The clients were indirectly notified by receiving an audit notice from the State requesting information related to the client’s 2013 tax return filing. Neither client has yet filed their return.
Your ShindelRock tax professional can help you during this scary time. Here’s a quick checklist of what we do in this situation:
Tax Issues:
1. Obtain Michigan and Federal powers of attorney
2. Call number on Michigan notice to let them know what’s going on
3. Fill out identity theft affidavit (Form 14039) for both spouses.
4. We will need copies of client’s driver’s licenses, passports (if any), and social security cards
5. Write letter to State of Michigan (to address on notice) explaining the situation. Include affidavit and copies of identification.
6. Call the IRS identity theft unit 1-800-908-4490 to show Power of Attorney
7. Paper file 2013 returns for IRS and Michigan and attach affidavit and copies of identification
Other Issues – Client Checklist
1. Call all 3 credit bureaus:
a. Equifax – 1-800-525-6285
b. Experian – 1-888-397-3742
c. TransUnion – 1-800-680-7289
2. Call social security administration 1-800-772-4213
3. Call FTC 1-877-438-4338
4. Call bank and credit card companies
5. File local police report
6. Below is a helpful link:
http://www.irs.gov/uac/Taxpayer-Guide-to-Identity-Theft [2]
If you suspect someone has fraudulently filed a tax return on your behalf, contact us immediately and we’ll begin the restoration process.