Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit (2020)

What Is A 14039 Form 

Form 14039, also known as the Identity Theft Affidavit, is a document provided by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for taxpayers to report instances of identity theft that have affected their tax records. This form helps the IRS investigate fraudulent activities and protect the taxpayer's account from further unauthorized activity. It is crucial for individuals who suspect or have confirmed that their personal information has been misused to file taxes fraudulently.

When to Use Form 14039 IRS

Taxpayers should use IRS Form 14039 in various situations:

• Receiving a notice from the IRS indicating a duplicate tax return was filed.
• Noticing a discrepancy in your tax records suggests your Social Security Number (SSN) was used fraudulently.
• Learning about tax-related identity theft through other means, such as being unable to e-file due to a duplicate SSN submission.
• Having been informed by the IRS that you might be a victim of identity theft after noticing suspicious IRS inquiries or having an unexplained tax transcript mailed to you.

How To Fill Out Form 14039 Instructions

To properly complete Form 14039, follow this step-by-step guide:

• Determine which section of the form applies to you; you will either indicate that you are a victim of identity theft or that the IRS has directed you to complete the form for other reasons.
• Provide your personal information, including your full name, Social Security Number, date of birth, and complete mailing address.
• Describe the tax year(s) affected and the type of tax form involved.
• Explain the identity theft issue in the 'Explain Your Situation' section, including any incidents that led to the discovery of the potential or actual identity theft.
• Attach a copy of the police report, if available, or other documentation that substantiates the identity theft.
• Sign and date the affidavit to confirm the integrity of the provided information.
• Remember to enter the IRS Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN) if it has been issued to you in the past.

Where To Send Form 14039

Typically, you may be instructed to mail it to the address specified in the form's instructions or attach it to your paper tax return if you are filing in response to a rejection of your electronic tax return due to a suspected identity theft incident. It is also possible to fax the form to the number provided by the IRS.