Identity Theft Overview

​The Kentucky Department of Revenue is focused on protecting you and your identity.  Kentucky has implemented many internal measures along with partnering with outside sources to prevent tax fraud and identity theft.  Fraud and identity theft cases are growing each year but Kentucky is analyzing and updating procedures as needed.  Safeguarding your tax information is very important to the Department of Revenue.

What is tax-related identity theft?

Tax-related identity theft occurs when someone uses your stolen Social Security number to file an income tax return claiming a fraudulent refund.

What are the signs of identity theft?

• You were notified when attempting to file electronically that you or your spouse’s social security has already been used to file a return
  
• Department of Revenue records indicate that we received wage information from an employer from whom you did not work
  
• You received a letter (letter ID) stating that your identity may have been used to claim a fraudulent refund from the Kentucky Department of Revenue
• You received notification from the IRS stating you may be a victim of identity theft
  

Have you received an IA or ID letter?

Letter IA:  You may have received the reference letter IA because the Kentucky Department of Revenue received an Individual Income Tax Return bearing your Social Security number.  The purpose of the reference letter IA is to: a) confirm your identity or b) confirm you did not file the return.  Respond to the letter as instructed or call for additional explanation.

Letter ID:  You may have received the reference letter ID because the Kentucky Department of Revenue believes you may be a victim of identity theft.  The purpose of the reference letter ID is to give instructions on how to file a return as an identity theft victim and to provide additional information about how to address and resolve identity theft issues.

Didn’t receive an IA or ID letter but still think you may be an identity theft victim?

Please visit our Identity Theft Victims page for instructions on how to file your return if you may have been a victim of identity theft.