How to Report Stolen W-2
In today’s digital age, the risk of identity theft and financial fraud has increased significantly. One of the most common forms of identity theft is the theft of a W-2 form, which contains sensitive personal and financial information. If you find yourself in a situation where your W-2 has been stolen, it is crucial to act quickly to protect yourself. This article will guide you on how to report a stolen W-2 and take necessary steps to safeguard your identity.
Immediate Actions to Take
1. Contact Your Employer: The first step is to inform your employer about the theft. They can take immediate action to prevent any further misuse of your W-2 information. Provide them with a copy of the stolen W-2 form and any other relevant details.
2. File a Police Report: It is essential to file a police report as soon as possible. This report will serve as an official record of the theft and can be used to support your claims with financial institutions and the IRS. Keep a copy of the police report for your records.
3. Place a Fraud Alert on Your Credit Reports: Contact one of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion) to place a fraud alert on your credit reports. This will notify creditors to verify your identity before opening any new accounts in your name. You can request a free credit report from each bureau to review for any suspicious activity.
4. Monitor Your Financial Accounts: Keep a close eye on your bank and credit card accounts for any unauthorized transactions. If you notice any suspicious activity, report it to your financial institution immediately.
Reporting to the IRS
1. Complete Form 14039
The IRS provides a specific form, Form 14039, “Identity Theft Affidavit,” to report stolen W-2s. You can download the form from the IRS website and complete it with the necessary details. Once filled out, mail the form to the IRS at the following address:
IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit
P.O. Box 9039
Jacksonville, FL 32202-9039
2. Contact the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit
If you have any questions or need assistance while filling out Form 14039, you can contact the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-908-4490. Be prepared to provide your name, Social Security number, and other personal information to verify your identity.
Additional Steps to Protect Yourself
1. Update Your Passwords: Change the passwords for your online accounts, especially those related to your financial information.
2. Consider Identity Theft Protection Services: If you feel vulnerable, you may want to consider using identity theft protection services that can monitor your credit and alert you to any suspicious activity.
3. Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated on the latest identity theft trends and preventive measures to stay one step ahead of potential thieves.
By following these steps, you can effectively report a stolen W-2 and take necessary actions to protect your identity and financial well-being. Remember, time is of the essence when dealing with identity theft, so act promptly to minimize the damage.
