IRS launches Identity Theft Central

The IRS Just Made It Easier to Report Identity Theft

Identity theft during tax season has exploded over the last few years. The IRS has now created a dedicated online hub called Identity Theft Central, designed to help taxpayers prevent fraud and recover stolen refunds faster.

This is big news because tax-related identity theft used to involve long phone calls, mailed documents, and months of waiting. Now, the IRS is centralizing everything in one place.

What Is IRS Identity Theft Central?

Identity Theft Central is a new IRS online hub where you can:

• Report suspected identity theft
• Submit a fraud affidavit
• Get instructions for stolen refund cases
• Learn refund recovery timelines
• Request an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)

It combines multiple IRS tools into one single dashboard, reducing confusion and helping taxpayers act quickly before refunds get tied up in fraud investigations.

When You Should Use It

Use Identity Theft Central immediately if:

• your return is rejected because someone filed first
• you receive a notice for a return you didn’t file
• your dependent’s SSN was used by another person
• your IRS record has unfamiliar income
• your WMR suddenly disappears with no update

The faster you notify the IRS, the faster your refund protection starts.

Features Inside Identity Theft Central

Inside the portal, you’ll find:

• Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit)
• IP PIN enrollment instructions
• Direct fraud reporting links
• Verification steps
• Recovery timeline FAQs
• Dependent fraud guidance

This means fewer calls and faster action from the IRS Identity Protection unit.

Identity Theft Cases During Tax Season

Most stolen refunds happen:

• before taxpayers file
• during January and February
• before the IRS identity system applies protections

Identity thieves file early on purpose. That’s why using an IP PIN and checking for dependents on IRS.gov is becoming essential.

A Real Advantage: IP PIN Enrollment

For the first time, the IRS encourages ALL taxpayers to enroll in the IP PIN program voluntarily—even without a prior fraud incident.

Why? Because it prevents someone else from using your Social Security number to claim:

• your refund
• your dependents
• your credits

Once activated, no one can file a tax return using your Social Security number without your yearly PIN.

IRS Identity Theft Central gives taxpayers direct access to fraud reporting, refund protection, digital tools, and identity verification—without relying on phone lines or mailed forms.

If you want peace of mind this season:

• go to Identity Theft Central
• enroll in the IP PIN program
• save your PIN in a secure place
• monitor your IRS transcript

Identity theft is now one of the biggest refund delays. Protect yourself before filing.