Immediate reality: a fraudulent refund claim is time-sensitive. Below are clear, prioritized steps to recover your money, re-secure your tax account, and reduce future risk.

1) Follow any IRS notice and file Form 14039 when directed

  • If you receive an IRS notice saying a return or refund was already filed, follow the notice instructions and submit IRS Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit). The IRS often instructs victims to file a paper return with Form 14039 attached when they cannot e-file because someone else already filed. (IRS: https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams)

2) Document everything you receive or send

  • Keep copies of IRS letters, the Form 14039, your filed return, police reports, and any correspondence with credit bureaus or the FTC. These records speed investigations and help when applying for refunds or penalty relief.

3) Check your IRS account and transcripts

4) Place a fraud alert or credit freeze

  • Contact the three national credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) to place a fraud alert or freeze your file. A freeze stops most new credit accounts from being opened in your name. File an identity theft report at IdentityTheft.gov to get a recovery plan and help creating an affidavit for creditors (FTC: https://www.identitytheft.gov/).

5) File a police report when theft is significant or you’re asked to do so

  • A police report can be required by some agencies or creditors and strengthens your documentation when disputing fraudulent claims.

6) Request an IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)

7) Follow up and be persistent

  • Identity-fraud cases can take months. Use the IRS Identity Theft Central pages, keep a timeline of calls and submissions, and respond promptly to IRS requests for additional proof. If the IRS establishes you as a victim, they will flag your account and guide next steps.

Documentation checklist (common items the IRS or creditors may request):

  • Government photo ID (driver’s license or passport)
  • Social Security card or proof of SSN
  • Copy of the IRS notice showing the fraudulent filing
  • Police report or FTC IdentityTheft.gov report
  • Copies of your legitimate tax returns for the year in question and prior years

Prevention and follow-up actions

  • File early next year: filing before thieves reduces the chance another return is accepted using your SSN.
  • Secure personal accounts: strong, unique passwords and multi-factor authentication for email, tax preparer accounts, and financial services.
  • Limit sharing of your SSN: provide it only where legally required; shred old documents.
  • Enroll in credit monitoring if recommended by your financial institutions.
  • Review your state tax accounts — some states have separate identity-theft processes.
  • Read our guide on protecting refunds to reduce future risk: How to Protect Your Refund from Identity Theft and Fraudulent Claims.

When to get professional help

  • Consult a tax professional (CPA, enrolled agent) or an identity-theft attorney if the IRS does not resolve your case, you face additional tax assessments, or fraud extends to employment or benefits accounts. For guidance on responding to IRS notices about identity theft, see: What to Do When You Receive a Tax Identity Theft Letter.

Author’s note (experience and approach)

  • In my 15+ years helping clients, the most common delay is slow documentation. Gather records promptly, respond to IRS notices quickly, and insist on written confirmation when the IRS or a bureau resolves a dispute.

Authoritative resources

Professional disclaimer

  • This article is educational and not individualized tax or legal advice. If your situation is complex, consult a qualified tax professional, attorney, or the IRS directly.