If you suspect identity theft or need to document a fraud claim, there are several critical "papers"—official forms and affidavits—you may need to file with government agencies and creditors. Essential Identity Fraud Documentation
: The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) provides easy-to-print checklists and sample letters for notifying banks and creditors about unauthorized accounts or charges. Steps to Protect and Recover id fraud protection
Depending on the type of fraud, you should prioritize these official documents: If you suspect identity theft or need to
: This is the primary document used to prove you are a victim. You can create it at IdentityTheft.gov , the federal government's official one-stop resource. This report is essential for blocking fraudulent information from your credit report. You can create it at IdentityTheft
: Use this if you believe your Social Security number has been used to file a fraudulent tax return. This form can be submitted online at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or printed and mailed.
To secure your identity immediately, follow these procedural steps: Get an identity protection PIN | Internal Revenue Service
: While not always required, a formal police report from your local department serves as secondary evidence of the crime. It is often needed to request an extended seven-year fraud alert on your credit files.