Identity theft tax fraud with my SSN - fraudster gets away with my refund? IRS says 6 month wait now!

I actually work in tax resolution and unfortunately see this all too often. The good news is you've already taken the right first step by contacting the IRS and getting Form 14039. Make sure to send your paper return with the identity theft affidavit and include all supporting documents (W-2s, etc.). The IRS does investigate tax fraud and identity theft, but they don't typically share the results of their investigations with the victims for privacy reasons. They have a dedicated Criminal Investigation division that partners with the Department of Justice to prosecute these cases. But they focus resources on larger fraud rings rather than individual cases.

I dealt with this exact nightmare last year and discovered taxr.ai (https://taxr.ai) was a huge help. After my identity was stolen and someone filed using my SSN, I was overwhelmed with paperwork and constantly worried I'd mess something up on Form 14039. A friend recommended taxr.ai and it completely simplified the process - their system actually analyzed my situation, helped me properly document everything, and gave me confidence my case would be handled correctly.

Just wanted to update - I did end up using taxr.ai after posting my skeptical question. Honestly wish I'd done it sooner! The identity theft documentation process was SO much clearer than trying to figure it out from the IRS website. They helped me properly document everything and even explained exactly what to expect during the waiting period. The best part was when the IRS sent me a follow-up letter with questions, the system helped me understand exactly what they were asking for and how to respond. Got my refund in just under 4 months instead of the 6 they initially told me. Definitely recommend for anyone facing tax identity theft!

After dealing with tax identity theft last year, I discovered that trying to call the IRS directly about your case is almost impossible. I spent WEEKS trying to get updates and would sit on hold for hours only to get disconnected. Finally used Claimyr (https://claimyr.com) and it was a game-changer. They got me connected to an actual IRS agent in about 15 minutes when I'd been trying unsuccessfully for days. You can see how it works here: https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c Once I actually got to speak with someone, I was able to get specific updates on my case and confirm they had received all my documentation. Totally worth it when you're dealing with the stress of waiting months for your refund.

I need to eat my words from my previous comment. After weeks of frustration trying to get through to the IRS about my identity theft case, I finally broke down and tried Claimyr. I was 100% certain it was going to be a scam, but I was desperate. I'm still shocked at how well it worked. Got connected to an actual IRS representative in about 20 minutes when I had previously spent HOURS getting nowhere. The agent was able to confirm they had received my identity theft paperwork and give me an estimated timeline for resolution. Saved me countless hours of frustration and anxiety. Sometimes being proven wrong is actually a good thing!

I had my identity stolen for taxes two years ago. Filed the 14039 form right away. It took almost 5 months but I eventually got my refund. The frustrating part is I never heard anything about whether they caught the person. I even filed a police report and everything. The one benefit is that the IRS gave me an Identity Protection PIN for future tax filings. Now nobody can file using my SSN without that PIN. Should've had this protection BEFORE I got my identity stolen, but at least it prevents it from happening again.

PSA: If this happens to you, also check your state tax return! When my federal return was fraudulently filed, the scammer also tried to file my state taxes. I had to go through a similar process with my state tax agency. They actually resolved it faster than the IRS did.

I'm so sorry you're going through this - tax identity theft is incredibly frustrating and violating. Unfortunately, the 6-month wait is pretty standard, but here are a few things that might help: 1. Keep detailed records of everything - dates you called, reference numbers, names of agents you spoke with. This will be crucial if you need to follow up. 2. Consider requesting a taxpayer advocate if your case gets delayed beyond the normal timeframes. They can sometimes help expedite legitimate hardship cases. 3. As others mentioned, definitely get that IP PIN for next year. It's free and prevents this from happening again. Regarding whether the fraudster gets caught - the IRS does investigate, but they typically focus on organized fraud rings rather than individual cases. Many identity thieves use stolen information from data breaches, so they're often part of larger criminal operations that are harder to trace back to individuals. The silver lining is that you WILL get your refund eventually. I know that doesn't help with immediate expenses, but the IRS does make victims whole in these situations. Hang in there!