Not only is springtime here, but the tax deadline is also approaching. It can be a stressful time for some, but what can make it worse is the possibility of identity theft.
Michelle Reinen of the DATCP appeared on the WCUB Breakfast Club recently and went over ways that thieves like to steal identities at tax time, largely having to do with people’s social security number.
For extra security, Reinen recommends you ask the Wisconsin Department of Revenue to flag your SSN by calling (608) 266-2772.
Then to use a flagged SSN, your identity will have to be verified before a state tax return will be sent out, preventing a thief from receiving your refund.
Another thing Reinen says you can do is apply for an IP-PIN number with both the IRS and the DOR.
She explained that “You will get a new PIN number at the beginning of each filing year that you have to file with your taxes, so that that way they know it’s you and it’s not the identity thieves filing under your name.”
Reinen also recommends filing taxes as soon as possible so identity thieves don’t have a chance of doing it first.
This also gives you more time to resolve any issues before returns are due.
If you notice a problem with your return or suspect fraud, contact the IRS at www.irs.gov.
