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Identity Protection Tips for Tax Season

During tax time, keeping your personal information safe is just as important as filing correctly. Your Social Security number is one of the most sensitive pieces of information you own, and this is the time of year when it’s at the highest risk of being stolen. That’s why identity protection tips for tax season matters so much.

If a thief gets your Social Security number, they can do more than open accounts—they may file a fake tax return and claim your refund before you even start your real return. Here’s how to protect yourself.

Safeguard Your Tax Documents to Protect your Identity

  • When W-2s and tax forms arrive, store them in a locked drawer or safe.
  • Make sure employers and financial institutions have your correct address so documents aren’t delivered to the wrong place.
  • After seven years, shred old tax returns and paperwork you no longer need.

These simple steps support protecting your identity during tax season by keeping paper documents out of the wrong hands.

Use Secure Delivery Methods

  • Never leave tax documents in an open outgoing mailbox. Use certified mail instead.
  • If you take paperwork to a tax preparer, keep it with you—don’t leave it in your car or unattended at work.

This is an important part of tax season identity theft prevention, especially when handling sensitive files.

Protect Your Data When e-Filing

  • Only file your taxes using a secure Wi-Fi network on an updated computer or device.
  • Avoid filing from public locations like libraries or cafés.
  • Use strong, complex passwords and keep your security software updated.
  • If sending documents by email, use password protection and encrypt any files containing personal data.

Following these identity protection tips for tax season helps safeguard your digital information during online filing.

Don’t Take the Bait

  • Watch for phishing emails or calls pretending to be from banks or the IRS.
  • The IRS will never contact you by email or phone about your return—only by mail.
  • If you get an email claiming to be from the IRS, delete it without clicking anything.

Being aware of scams is key to protecting your identity during tax season.

Know the Signs of Tax-Related Identity Theft

You may be a victim if:

  • A W-2 you were expecting never arrives.

  • You receive tax forms from companies you’ve never worked for.

  • The IRS rejects your return because one has already been filed in your name.

  • Tax documents in the mail look tampered with.

If You Become a Victim

If you suspect identity theft:

  1. Contact the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-908-4490 and complete Form 14039, the IRS Identity Theft Affidavit.
  2. File a report with your local police department using the FTC Identity Theft Affidavit.
  3. Place a fraud alert on your credit reports:

4. Review your credit reports for accounts you didn’t open or incorrect information.

These actions strengthen your recovery and support ongoing tax season identity theft prevention.

Tax season may never be enjoyable, but taking a few smart steps can go a long way toward protecting your identity during tax season. By following these identity protection tips for tax season, you can reduce your risk and stay focused on what truly matters—getting your taxes filed safely and securely.

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