How to request a copy of a fraudulent tax return

Identity theft remains one of the most serious issues taxpayers face. When someone uses a taxpayer’s Social Security number to file a fraudulent return, it can lead to rejected filings, delayed refunds and months of frustration. As a tax professional, you can play a key role in helping victims navigate the IRS process to obtain a copy of the fraudulent return filed in their name.

This process is essential not only for resolving identity theft cases but also for protecting clients from future fraud. Here’s what you need to know about who can request a copy, how to complete the request and what to expect once the IRS receives it.

Why a copy of the fraudulent return matters

Obtaining a copy of the fraudulent return allows taxpayers to see how their personal information was misused. It provides insight into the filing status, income sources, claimed dependents, refund amounts and bank accounts listed. Reviewing the information helps victims and their preparers identify data breaches and take steps to prevent further harm.

You can also use this information to help clients work with financial institutions or credit bureaus if their data was compromised. Having documentation directly from the IRS strengthens their case when disputing identity theft with other agencies or financial institutions.

Who can request a copy

Only individuals listed as the primary or secondary taxpayer on the fraudulent return may request a copy. Dependents or anyone listed only as a dependent cannot make this request. However, an authorized representative may request the copy on behalf of the taxpayer if they have the proper documentation, such as Form 2848, Power of Attorney, Form 8821, Tax Information Authorization, or a valid court order.

At this time, businesses are unable to request copies of fraudulent business tax returns. If both taxpayers on a joint return were victims, each must sign the request form unless one has legal authority to sign for the other. This ensures compliance with privacy laws and IRS identity verification standards.

Step-by-step: how to request a copy

• Complete Form 4506-F: Use Form 4506-F, Identity Theft Victim’s Request for Copy of Fraudulent Tax Return. Provide the taxpayer’s name, Social Security number, current address, the tax year or years involved and a daytime phone number. The taxpayer or authorized representative must sign and date the form.
• Submit by mail or fax: Taxpayers can mail the completed form to:
  Department of the Treasury, Internal Revenue Service, Fresno, CA 93725. Private delivery services should ship to 3211 S Northpointe Drive, Fresno, CA 93725, labeled “Identity Theft – Request for Fraudulent Return.”
  They can also fax it to 855-807-5720 with “Confidential” written on the cover sheet. Do not send the form by both mail and fax, choose only one method.
• Use the correct address of record: The address on the form must match the IRS address of record. If the taxpayer has moved, they should first file Form 8822, Change of Address, to update their record.
• Include authorization if applicable: Representatives must include Form 2848, Form 8821 or a court order that grants access to the taxpayer’s return information. Without this documentation, the IRS will reject the request.
• Allow time for processing: The IRS generally acknowledges receipt within 30 days, but processing may take up to 120 days or longer. Current backlogs mean average processing is around 582 days, so it may take well over a year.

What to expect

The IRS provides a masked tax return transcript (a redacted copy) of the fraudulent return. This means that sensitive information, such as names, Social Security numbers and bank account numbers, will be partially masked. However, enough detail remains for the taxpayer and preparer to identify the information used by the fraudster, such as income amounts and claimed credits.

The taxpayer should retain this document in a secure place. It can be shared with law enforcement, the Federal Trade Commission or credit bureaus if needed for identity theft reporting.

Best practices  

• Set expectations early. Explain to clients that the process may take months and that the IRS will send only a masked copy to protect other taxpayers’ information.
• Ensure accuracy before submission. A mismatched address or incomplete form will delay processing. Review Form 4506-F for completeness before submitting.
• Confirm that the identity theft case is active. If the taxpayer has not yet filed Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit, they must do so first. The IRS must treat the account as an identity theft case and resolve it before releasing the transcript, but clients can still submit Form 4506-F while the case is pending.
• Maintain thorough documentation. Keep copies of all forms, correspondence and confirmation receipts. Create a timeline of each submission and follow-up contact. These records may be helpful if the IRS requests clarification or if an amended return is later required.
• Review the fraudulent return with the client. Once the masked copy arrives, schedule time to review it together. Identify discrepancies such as fake income, dependents or refund accounts. Discuss next steps, including filing an accurate return, securing an Identity Protection PIN and monitoring credit reports.

Helping clients prevent future fraud

After assisting a client with the request, take time to help them prevent future issues. Encourage them to:

• Register for an IRS online account and request an identity protection PIN
• Keep Social Security cards and tax documents in a secure location
• Use multi-factor authentication on financial and email accounts
• Avoid sharing sensitive information over the phone or email unless you are certain of the recipient’s identity
• File early during tax season to minimize the window for fraudulent filings

Why it matters to your practice

Assisting clients who have experienced tax-related identity theft builds credibility and trust in your services. Many taxpayers find the process intimidating and confusing. When you can explain the steps clearly and help them complete the necessary forms, you become a valuable advocate.