If you think you’ve been a victim of a tax identity theft, you should call the IRS immediately. The IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit can be reached at 1-800-908-4490. The more paperwork you have to prove you are whom you claim to be, dating as far back as possible, will help your claim. You’ll also have to file an IRS ID Theft Affidavit Form 14039. Your tax refund is going to be delayed, however you shouldn’t experience financial issues. If the late refund causes hardship, you can appeal using Form 911 or calling the IRS Taxpayer Advocate Office at 1-877-777-4778.

After you’ve verified your identity and the case is resolved, you’ll receive a specialized “IP PIN” number, which will be used to authenticate your tax return whenever you e-file. You should treat this pin with the same security as your SSN. If you forget or lose your pin, the IRS will have to provide a new one, which will cause a further delay in your refund. Each year, you’ll get a new pin number, so you’ll have to get in the habit of remembering to get your code before you file.

You’ll also need to get a copy of the return that was filed fraudulently in your name, as it can give you information about the perpetrator. You may need to use this if the fraud intends on performing additional identity theft with your information. You are legally entitled to receive a copy by filing Form 4506-F, Request for a Copy of a Fraudulent Tax Return.