E-File Rejected Tax Return: Why and What to Do
From Tax Guide.
Tax Guide · Arab, Alabama
Someone Filed Taxes With My Number: Tax Identity Theft
If someone filed a return using your Social Security number, act quickly: file Form 14039, keep filing your own return, and ask about an IP PIN.
The short answer
What do I do if someone filed taxes using my Social Security number?
File Form 14039, the Identity Theft Affidavit, with the IRS, continue to file your own tax return, and keep records of everything you send.
Tax identity theft happens when someone uses your name and Social Security number to file a return, usually to claim a refund. The first sign is often a rejected e-file with a message that a return was already filed under your number. Other signs include a letter from the IRS about a return you did not file, or a tax bill for income you never earned.
Try not to panic. The IRS has a process for cases like this, and it takes patience, because resolving a case can take a long time.
Warning signs
How do I know if my tax identity was stolen?
The clearest sign is being told a return was already filed under your number, but there are quieter signs too.
Not every mismatch means theft. A typo, or a dependent claimed by another relative, can produce similar messages. Read any notice fully before you assume the worst, and see our guide on an e-file rejected tax return for the other common causes.
- Your e-filed return is rejected because a return already exists with your number.
- You get an IRS letter about a return you did not file.
- You get a notice about wages from an employer you never worked for.
- You receive a Form 1099-G for unemployment you did not claim.
- You see a refund, or a transcript, that you did not expect.
Steps to take
How do I report tax identity theft to the IRS?
Complete Form 14039 and send it as the form instructs, along with a copy of your identification, and then file your own return by paper if e-filing is not accepted.
Do not wait for the IRS to sort it out before you file, because your own return is still due. If the e-file is rejected as a duplicate, a paper return may be needed. Keep a copy of everything, note the dates you sent things, and respond to IRS letters by their deadlines.
Beyond the IRS, people often take steps to protect their identity more widely: reviewing credit reports, placing a fraud alert or credit freeze, and reporting the theft through official channels. The IRS website lists the steps. Because your Social Security number is involved, please do not email it to us or send documents through our website; bring them in or call us.
| Step | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| File Form 14039 | Tells the IRS your number was misused |
| File your own return | Your deadline still applies |
| Keep copies and dates | Builds a record if the case drags on |
| Respond to IRS letters on time | Missed deadlines can slow the case |
| Ask about an IP PIN | Adds protection for future returns |
The IRS decides how to handle each case. Resolution can take many months.
Protecting yourself
What is an IP PIN?
An IP PIN, or Identity Protection PIN, is a six-digit number the IRS assigns you that must be entered on your return, so a thief who has your Social Security number cannot file without it.
The IRS issues one to identity theft victims, and other taxpayers can generally opt in through the IRS. The number changes each year, so you need the current one every filing season, and you should keep it private. A lost IP PIN can be retrieved through the IRS.
Do not share your IP PIN with anyone who contacts you first. Scammers pose as the IRS by phone, text and email. The IRS makes first contact by mail. If you get an unexpected call demanding payment or personal details, hang up and call the office or the IRS at a number you found yourself.
If the IRS writes
What if the IRS sends me a notice about the fake return?
Do not ignore it: read the deadline printed on the notice, keep a copy and respond, or call the office and we can help you sort out what it asks.
Some notices ask you to confirm your identity, while others question income or a refund. Our guide on what to do when you receive an IRS notice walks through the steps. If a thief's return also claimed a benefit you never received, such as unemployment, see unemployment benefits and taxes.
Our tax representation service reviews the notice, explains the options and responds to the agency on your behalf.
How we can help
Need help with tax identity theft?
Our tax representation service can review IRS and Alabama notices, explain your options and respond to the agency for you.
Bring any IRS letters, your rejected return message and your identification, or call us at 256-586-4635. Please do not send Social Security numbers or documents through the website. We also prepare your income tax return once you are ready to file.
We serve Arab and the surrounding area, and you can contact us to set up a time.
Answers
Questions about tax identity theft
What is Form 14039?
It is the Identity Theft Affidavit that tells the IRS your Social Security number was used without your permission. The form has instructions on where to send it.
Do I still have to file my own tax return?
Yes. Your filing obligation continues, and you may need to file on paper if the e-file is rejected because of the fake return.
How long does it take to resolve tax identity theft?
It can take many months. Keep copies of everything and respond to any IRS request by its deadline.
What is an IP PIN and do I need one?
It is a six-digit number the IRS assigns to protect your return. Identity theft victims receive one, and other taxpayers can generally opt in. It changes every year.
Will the IRS call me about identity theft?
The IRS first contacts people by mail. Be cautious of calls, texts or emails claiming to be the IRS and asking for personal details or payment.
Can you help if I get a notice about the fake return?
Our tax representation service can review the notice, explain the options and respond to the agency on your behalf. Call us with a copy of the notice.
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