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When it comes to protecting your identity, understanding the IRS Form 14039 is crucial. This form is your first line of defense against tax-related identity theft, a growing concern in today’s digital age. If you suspect that someone has fraudulently used your Social Security number to file a tax return, completing this form is an essential step. By submitting Form 14039, you notify the IRS of the potential misuse of your identity and request that they take action to secure your account. This form not only helps to safeguard your tax records but also initiates a process that can lead to the resolution of any fraudulent activity. Timeliness is key; the sooner you act, the better your chances of minimizing the impact of identity theft. In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the specific requirements, the process of filing the form, and the steps you should take if you find yourself in this unfortunate situation.

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Form 14039

(May 2024)

Department of the Treasury - Internal Revenue Service

Identity Theft Affidavit

OMB Number

1545-2139

This affidavit is for victims of identity theft. To avoid delays do not use this form if you have already filed a Form 14039 for this incident.

Form 14039 can also be completed online at https://www.irs.gov/dmaf/form/f14039.

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, also available by going to irs.gov/ippin.

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. I am submitting this Form 14039 in response to an IRS Notice or Letter received

•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 (include that person’s information below in Section C and D)

•Complete Sections A-F of this form. Do not use this form If dependent’s identity was misused by a parent or guardian in filing taxes, this is not identity theft.

4. I am submitting this Form 14039 on behalf of another person living or deceased (other than my dependent child or dependent relative)

• Complete Sections A- F of this form.

Section B – How I Am Impacted (required when reporting misuse of Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN))

Check all boxes that apply to the person listed in Section C below. If the person in Section C has previously submitted a Form 14039 for the same incident, there’s no need to submit another Form 14039.

1. I know or suspect that someone used my information to fraudulently file a federal tax return

I/My dependent was fraudulently/incorrectly claimed as a dependent (use that person’s information for Section C & D)

My SSN or ITIN was fraudulently used for employment purposes

Note: If you are a victim of Identity theft but it does not involve your federal tax return, you should request an IP PIN to protect yourself. Get An Identity Protection PIN | Internal Revenue Service (irs.gov)

Provide an explanation of the identity theft issue, how it impacts your tax account, when 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 SSN or ITIN)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current mailing address (apartment or suite

number and street, or P.O. Box)

Current city

 

 

 

 

State

ZIP code

If deceased, provide last known address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address used on last filed tax return (if different than ‘Current’)

 

City (on last tax return filed)

 

 

State

ZIP code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Telephone number with area code. The IRS may call you regarding this affidavit

 

 

 

Best time(s) to call

 

Home phone number

 

 

Cell phone number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Language in which you would like to be contacted

English

 

Spanish

 

Other

 

 

 

Section D – Tax Account Information: Last tax return filed (year shown on the tax return) and Returns Impacted

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I was not required to file a return or filed a return with no income information

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Names used on last filed tax return

 

 

 

The last tax return filed (year shown on the tax return)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What Tax Year(s) you believe were impacted by tax-related identity theft (example: 2020 is input for citing the 2020 tax return though filed the next year(s). (if not known, enter ‘Unknown’ below))

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. 5-2024)

Section E – 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

Section F – 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 I have been authorized to act on behalf of the taxpayer per Form 2848, Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative

•Attach a copy of documentation showing your appointment as conservator or Power of Attorney authorization.

•If you have an IRS issued Centralized Authorization File (CAF) number, enter the nine-digit number:

5. The person listed above 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

Parent/Legal Guardian

Power of Attorney

Fiduciary per IRS Form 56, Notice of Fiduciary Relationship

Other

 

 

 

 

Parent’s/Representative's name

 

 

 

Last name

First name

 

Middle initial

Parent’s/Representative’s current mailing address (city, town or post office, state, and ZIP code)

Parent’s/Representative’s telephone number

Instructions for Submitting this Form

Submit this completed and signed form to the IRS via Online, 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:

•Do not use this form if you have already filed a Form 14039 for this incident.

•Choose one method of submitting this form either Online (preferred method), by Mail, or by FAX, not all methods.

•Provide clear and readable photocopies/images of any additional information you may choose to provide.

•Submit the original tax return to the IRS location where you normally file your tax return. Do not use the following address or fax number to file an original tax return.

 

Online (Preferred Method)

 

Submitting by Mail

• https://www.irs.gov/dmaf/form/f14039

•

If you checked Box 2 in Section A in response to a notice or letter

 

 

 

received from the IRS, return this form and if possible, a copy of the

 

Submitting by FAX

 

 

 

notice or letter to the address contained in the notice or letter.

• Always include a cover sheet marked "Confidential”.

•

If you checked Box 1 or 2 in Section B of Form 14039 and are unable

• If you checked Box 2 in Section A of Form 14039 and are submitting

 

to file your tax return electronically because the SSN/ITIN of you,

 

this form in response to a notice or letter received from the IRS. If it

 

your spouse, or dependent was misused, attach this Form 14039 to

 

provides a FAX number, you should send there.

 

the back of your paper tax return and submit to the IRS location where

•

If no FAX number is shown on the notice or letter, follow the mailing

 

you normally file your tax return.

•

All others should mail this form to:

 

instructions on the notice or letter.

•

For all others, FAX this form toll-free to:

 

Department of the Treasury

 

Internal Revenue Service

 

855-807-5720

 

 

 

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.

Catalog Number 52525A

www.irs.gov

Form 14039 (Rev. 5-2024)
➤ PDF File

Form Specifications

Fact Name Description
Purpose of Form The IRS Form 14039, also known as the Identity Theft Affidavit, is used by individuals to report suspected identity theft related to their tax records.
Filing Requirement Taxpayers should complete this form if they believe their personal information has been compromised and used to file a fraudulent tax return.
Submission Process Form 14039 can be submitted electronically or mailed to the IRS, depending on the taxpayer's situation and the instructions provided on the form.
State-Specific Considerations Some states have their own identity theft reporting forms. For example, California residents may refer to California Revenue and Taxation Code Section 19382.5.
Impact on Tax Filing Filing Form 14039 does not delay the processing of a legitimate tax return but may require additional steps to verify identity and secure tax records.

IRS 14039: Usage Guidelines

The IRS Form 14039 is used to report identity theft related to tax issues. After completing the form, you will need to submit it to the IRS along with any required documentation. This will help initiate the process of resolving your tax situation.

  1. Begin by downloading the IRS Form 14039 from the IRS website or obtaining a hard copy.
  2. At the top of the form, fill in your name as it appears on your tax return.
  3. Provide your Social Security number (SSN) in the designated field.
  4. Enter your address, including street, city, state, and ZIP code.
  5. In the section regarding identity theft, check the appropriate box to indicate whether you believe you are a victim of identity theft.
  6. Provide a brief description of the identity theft incident in the space provided. Include relevant details such as when it occurred and how you discovered it.
  7. If you have filed a police report, include the report number and the name of the police department.
  8. Sign and date the form at the bottom to certify that the information you provided is accurate.
  9. Make a copy of the completed form for your records before submitting it.
  10. Mail the form to the address specified in the instructions, or follow any additional submission guidelines provided by the IRS.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the IRS Form 14039?

The IRS Form 14039, also known as the Identity Theft Affidavit, is a document used by individuals who believe they have been victims of identity theft. This form helps taxpayers report the misuse of their personal information, particularly when someone else has fraudulently used their Social Security number to file a tax return or receive benefits. By submitting this form, individuals can alert the IRS to the identity theft and begin the process of rectifying the situation.

Who should file Form 14039?

Anyone who suspects that their personal information has been stolen and used fraudulently should consider filing Form 14039. This includes individuals who have received notices from the IRS about suspicious activity related to their tax returns, or those who have discovered unauthorized transactions linked to their Social Security number. Filing this form is a crucial step in protecting oneself from further identity theft and financial loss.

How do I complete Form 14039?

To complete Form 14039, start by providing your personal information, including your name, address, and Social Security number. Next, indicate the nature of the identity theft and provide any relevant details, such as how you discovered the theft and any actions you have already taken. It’s important to be as detailed as possible to help the IRS understand your situation. Finally, sign and date the form before submitting it.

Where do I send Form 14039?

Once you have completed Form 14039, you can submit it to the IRS by mailing it to the address specified in the form's instructions. Typically, this will be the address for the IRS office that handles identity theft cases. Ensure that you keep a copy of the form for your records, as well as any correspondence you receive from the IRS regarding your case.

What happens after I submit Form 14039?

After submitting Form 14039, the IRS will review your claim and may contact you for additional information. They will investigate the identity theft report and take steps to secure your tax account. You may receive a notice from the IRS confirming that they have received your affidavit and outlining any further actions you may need to take. It’s important to stay vigilant and monitor your financial accounts during this time.

Can I file Form 14039 online?

Currently, Form 14039 cannot be filed online. The IRS requires that this form be submitted via mail. However, you can download the form from the IRS website, fill it out, and then print it for mailing. This process ensures that you provide all necessary information directly to the IRS in a secure manner.

What if I need help with Form 14039?

If you need assistance with Form 14039, consider reaching out to a tax professional or a local legal aid organization. They can provide guidance on completing the form and help you understand your rights and options. Additionally, the IRS has resources available, including a dedicated identity theft hotline, where you can get more information and support related to identity theft issues.

Common mistakes

  1. Not signing the form. A signature is essential. Without it, the form cannot be processed.

  2. Providing incorrect personal information. Double-check your name, Social Security number, and address. Mistakes can delay the process.

  3. Failing to include all necessary documentation. Attach any required documents that support your claim.

  4. Using the wrong mailing address. Make sure to send the form to the correct IRS address specified for Form 14039.

  5. Not keeping a copy of the form. Always retain a copy for your records. This can be helpful for future reference.

  6. Submitting the form too late. Pay attention to deadlines. Late submissions can complicate matters.

Documents used along the form

The IRS Form 14039, also known as the Identity Theft Affidavit, is essential for individuals who suspect their personal information has been compromised. When filing this form, you may also need to submit additional documents to support your claim or to address related issues. Below is a list of other forms and documents that are often used alongside the IRS 14039.

  • Form 1040: This is the standard individual income tax return form. It is used to report your income, claim tax deductions, and calculate your tax liability.
  • Form 4868: This form is used to request an automatic extension of time to file your individual income tax return. It allows taxpayers to file their returns later without incurring penalties.
  • Form 14039-A: This is the Identity Theft Affidavit for businesses. Similar to Form 14039, it is used by business owners who suspect identity theft affecting their business tax filings.
  • Form 8822: This form is used to change your address with the IRS. If your address has changed due to identity theft or other reasons, it is important to update your information.
  • Form 4506-T: This form allows you to request a transcript of your tax return. It can be useful to verify your tax information when dealing with identity theft.
  • Form 941: This is the Employer’s Quarterly Federal Tax Return. If you are an employer, you will use this form to report income taxes, Social Security tax, and Medicare tax withheld from employee wages.
  • Form 8822-B: This form is used to change the address of a business entity. It is important for businesses to keep their address updated to avoid issues related to identity theft.
  • Identity Theft Report: This report can be filed with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and serves as an official statement of identity theft. It can help in disputing fraudulent charges and accounts.
  • Police Report: Filing a police report is often recommended when identity theft occurs. This document can serve as evidence when dealing with creditors or financial institutions.

Using these forms and documents alongside the IRS Form 14039 can help streamline the process of addressing identity theft. Ensure that you keep copies of all submitted documents for your records. Taking prompt action can mitigate the impact of identity theft on your financial health.

Similar forms

The IRS Form 14039, also known as the Identity Theft Affidavit, is a document used by individuals who believe they have been victims of identity theft related to their tax information. Several other documents serve similar purposes or are related in function. Below is a list of nine documents that share similarities with Form 14039:

  • Form 4506-T: This form allows taxpayers to request a transcript of their tax return. It can be useful for verifying income and other tax-related information, especially if identity theft has occurred.
  • Form 1040: The standard individual income tax return form. If someone has filed a return using your identity, you may need to file a corrected Form 1040 to report the actual income.
  • Form 8821: This form is used to authorize an individual to receive confidential tax information. If identity theft is suspected, a taxpayer may want to give someone else permission to help resolve the issue.
  • Form 14039-B: This is a variation of Form 14039 specifically for businesses. It helps business owners report identity theft incidents affecting their business tax accounts.
  • Form 8862: This form is used to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) after it has been disallowed in a previous year. If identity theft has impacted eligibility, this form may be necessary.
  • Form 14039-S: Similar to Form 14039, this version is intended for state tax issues related to identity theft, allowing individuals to report incidents to state tax authorities.
  • Identity Theft Report: This is a general report that can be filed with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) when identity theft occurs. It helps victims document the theft and can be used to support claims.
  • Form 1099: This form reports various types of income other than wages, salaries, and tips. If someone has fraudulently earned income using your identity, this form may be relevant.
  • Form 1045: This form allows taxpayers to apply for a quick refund of taxes paid in prior years due to identity theft. It can help recover funds lost due to fraudulent activities.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the IRS Form 14039, it is essential to approach the task with care. Here are some guidelines to follow:

  • Do: Provide accurate personal information. Ensure your name, address, and Social Security number are correct.
  • Do: Sign and date the form. An unsigned form may delay processing.
  • Do: Submit the form as soon as you suspect identity theft. Timely reporting can help mitigate potential issues.
  • Do: Keep a copy of the completed form for your records. Documentation is crucial for future reference.
  • Don't: Leave any required fields blank. Incomplete forms can lead to processing delays.
  • Don't: Use pencil or erasable ink. Permanent ink is necessary to ensure clarity and prevent alterations.
  • Don't: Ignore instructions provided on the form. Each step is designed to facilitate accurate completion.
  • Don't: Share sensitive information without verifying the recipient's identity. Protect your personal data at all costs.

Misconceptions

The IRS Form 14039, also known as the Identity Theft Affidavit, is a crucial document for individuals who believe they have been victims of identity theft. However, several misconceptions about this form can lead to confusion. Here are four common misunderstandings:

  • Misconception 1: The form is only for tax-related identity theft.

    • While the form is primarily used for tax issues, it can also be relevant for other types of identity theft. If someone uses your personal information to file a tax return fraudulently, this form is essential. However, it can also help in cases where your identity has been compromised in other ways.

  • Misconception 2: Filing the form automatically resolves all issues with the IRS.

    • Many people believe that submitting Form 14039 will immediately clear their tax records of any fraudulent activity. In reality, this form is just one step in a longer process. After filing, the IRS will investigate the claim, which may take time and could require additional documentation from you.

  • Misconception 3: You can only file the form during tax season.

    • Some individuals think that Form 14039 is only applicable during the tax filing season. However, you can file this form at any time of the year if you suspect identity theft. There is no deadline, so it’s important to act as soon as you realize your personal information has been compromised.

  • Misconception 4: The form guarantees protection against future identity theft.

    • Filing Form 14039 does not provide a guarantee against future identity theft. While it helps the IRS address the current issue, it’s important to take additional steps to protect your identity. This may include monitoring your credit report, using identity theft protection services, and being vigilant about sharing personal information.

Key takeaways

The IRS 14039 form is essential for individuals who suspect identity theft. Here are key takeaways to keep in mind when filling it out and using it:

  • Understand the Purpose: The form is used to report suspected identity theft related to tax matters.
  • Gather Necessary Information: Collect your personal details, including your Social Security number and any relevant tax documents.
  • Complete the Form Accurately: Fill in all required fields carefully to avoid delays in processing.
  • Submit the Form Promptly: Send the completed form to the IRS as soon as you suspect identity theft.
  • Keep Copies: Retain a copy of the form and any correspondence for your records.
  • Follow Up: Check the status of your submission if you do not receive a response within a reasonable time frame.
  • Protect Your Information: Take additional steps to safeguard your personal information after reporting identity theft.

Acting quickly can help mitigate the impact of identity theft. Make sure to stay informed and proactive.