Identity Theft Protection: Staying Safe During the 2026 Tax Season

NEW HAVEN, CT – February 5, 2026 – Tax-related identity theft continues to pose significant risks during filing season. In 2024, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) flagged $16.5 billion in refunds for possible identity fraud. Criminals are becoming more sophisticated, and taxpayers must take proactive steps to protect their personal and financial information.

The Reality of Tax Identity Theft!

Tax-related identity theft occurs when criminals use your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to file fraudulent tax returns and claim refunds. The consequences extend beyond stolen refunds, thieves can access your IRS account, compromise other financial accounts, and create years of problems with the IRS.

High-net-worth individuals face elevated risk due to:

• Complex financial lives with multiple income sources
• Publicly available personal data
• Larger potential refund amounts
• Multiple properties and investment accounts

The threat is real, but protection is available through several key strategies.

Your Strongest Defense: The IP PIN!

An Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a six-digit number issued by the IRS that prevents unauthorized individuals from filing tax returns using your SSN or ITIN. This PIN is known only to you and the IRS, functioning as dual-factor authorization for your tax return.

Key facts about IP PINs:

• Each PIN is valid for one calendar year
• You must obtain a new IP PIN every January
• The IRS will not process electronic returns without the correct IP PIN
• Paper returns submitted without the IP PIN will be delayed
• The PIN acts as your primary safeguard against fraudulent filing

The IP PIN system represents your most effective defense against tax identity theft. Without it, criminals cannot successfully file a return in your name, even if they possess your SSN.

How to Obtain Your IP PIN!

The IRS offers multiple methods to secure an IP PIN. Choose the option that best fits your situation and timeline.

Online Enrollment (Fastest Method)

1. Visit the IRS website
2. Create or sign in to your ID.me account
3. Complete identity verification through the secure portal
4. Receive your IP PIN immediately upon verification
5. Store the PIN in a secure location

Online enrollment provides instant access and is the most efficient option for most taxpayers.

Form 15227 (Income-Based Alternative)

If your adjusted gross income (AGI) on your last filed return is below $84,000 (or $168,000 for married filing jointly):

1. Complete and submit Form 15227
2. Wait for the IRS to contact you via phone
3. Complete identity verification over the phone
4. Receive your IP PIN via mail within four to six weeks

This method requires advance planning due to processing time.

In-Person Appointment

If online verification is unsuccessful:

1. Schedule an appointment at your local Taxpayer Assistance Center
2. Bring government-issued identification
3. Complete identity verification with an IRS representative
4. Receive your IP PIN at the appointment or shortly thereafter

Plan early, as appointment availability may be limited during peak tax season.

Additional Protection Strategies!

Beyond the IP PIN, implement these essential safeguards to protect your tax information:

File Early
Submit your tax return as soon as you have all necessary documents. Early filing reduces the window of opportunity for criminals to file a fraudulent return using your information.

Secure Your IRS Online Account
Create a strong, unique password for your IRS online account. Use a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. Enable all available security features provided by the IRS.

Monitor Your Accounts Regularly
Check these accounts frequently for suspicious activity:

• Tax transcripts through your IRS account
• Social Security Administration records
• Credit reports from all three bureaus
• Bank and investment account statements
• Credit card transactions

Protect Personal Information

• Never share your SSN unless absolutely necessary
• Secure documents containing dependent information
• Protect data related to deceased family members
• Shred financial documents before disposal
• Use secure networks for online transactions

Recognize Common Scams
The IRS will never:

• Call to demand immediate payment
• Request credit or debit card numbers over the phone
• Threaten to involve local police for non-payment
• Send unsolicited emails about refunds or tax information
• Demand payment without allowing you to question or appeal

Delete suspicious emails immediately. Report phone scams to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration.

How Jose's Tax Service Protects Your Data!

At Jose's Tax Service, client security is our top priority. We implement multiple layers of protection to safeguard your sensitive information:

Secure Document Handling
All physical documents are stored in locked, fireproof cabinets. Digital files are encrypted using bank-level security protocols. We use secure file transfer systems for all electronic communications containing sensitive data.

Limited Access Protocols
Only authorized personnel have access to client files. Our staff undergoes regular security training and background checks. We maintain strict confidentiality agreements with all team members.

Virtual Concierge Tax Preparation
Our virtual services use encrypted video conferencing and secure document portals. You never need to send sensitive information through unsecured email or standard messaging apps.

Year-Round Support
We monitor your account for suspicious activity and alert you to potential issues. Our team stays informed about emerging scams and provides timely warnings to clients.

Professional Liability Coverage
We maintain comprehensive professional liability insurance to protect clients in the unlikely event of a security breach.

If You Suspect Identity Theft!

Act immediately if you believe someone has filed a fraudulent return using your SSN. Delays often complicate resolution and extend the timeline for receiving legitimate refunds.

Immediate Steps:

1. Call the IRS Taxpayer Protection Program (TPP) phone line
2. Report the theft at IdentityTheft.gov
3. Complete IRS Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit)
4. Keep detailed records of all IRS letters and case numbers
5. Contact Jose's Tax Service for professional guidance

Ongoing Actions:

• Continue filing your own returns on time
• Pay taxes as usual unless instructed otherwise by the IRS
• Maintain copies of all documentation
• Follow up regularly on your case status
• Consider obtaining an IP PIN for future protection

After verifying your identity, the IRS may take up to nine weeks to process your legitimate return. Patience and thorough documentation are essential during this period.

Take Action Now!

Tax season presents opportunities for criminals, but you can protect yourself with the right strategies. Obtain your IP PIN now, secure your accounts, and work with a professional tax preparer who prioritizes your security.

Jose's Tax Service provides comprehensive protection for your tax information while delivering expert preparation services. Our virtual concierge model combines convenience with security, allowing you to complete your taxes safely from home.

Don't wait until after a security breach occurs. Schedule your appointment with Jose's Tax Service today and experience the peace of mind that comes with professional, secure tax preparation. Visit josestaxservice.com or call our office to get started.

Your financial security is too important to leave to chance. Let us handle your taxes while you focus on what matters most.