What should I do immediately after discovering identity theft?
File a report at IdentityTheft.gov (run by the FTC) immediately — the site generates a personalized recovery plan and pre-filled dispute letters at no cost. Then place a fraud alert with one of the three credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion), which automatically notifies the other two.
Do I need to pay a service or hire a lawyer to recover from identity theft?
No. The FTC's IdentityTheft.gov provides every tool you need for free: a recovery plan, dispute letters, and guidance for every type of fraud. All credit bureau freezes and fraud alerts are also free by federal law.
How do I place a credit freeze to stop further damage?
Contact each bureau separately: Equifax (equifax.com), Experian (experian.com), and TransUnion (transunion.com). A freeze is free, takes effect immediately online, and prevents new credit from being opened in your name.
Do I need to file a police report for identity theft?
A police report is not always required but is recommended — many creditors and institutions require one to reverse fraudulent accounts. File at your local police department and request a copy of the report number.
What is an FTC Identity Theft Report and how do I get one?
An FTC Identity Theft Report is an official document created when you file at IdentityTheft.gov. It has the same legal weight as a police report for disputing accounts with creditors and has the right to block fraudulent information from your credit reports.
How do I dispute fraudulent accounts on my credit report?
Send a dispute letter to each credit bureau (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) along with your FTC Identity Theft Report. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), bureaus must investigate and remove the fraudulent accounts within 30 days.
What if someone filed a tax return in my name?
File IRS Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit) with the IRS immediately. The IRS will assign you an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) for future returns, preventing anyone else from filing a return under your Social Security number.
How do I dispute fraudulent charges with a credit card company?
Contact the card issuer in writing within 60 days of the statement date and cite the Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA). Attach your FTC report and police report. The issuer must investigate and cannot hold you liable for unauthorized charges.
What if someone stole my Social Security number and got a job?
Contact the Social Security Administration at ssa.gov/fraud or call 1-800-269-0271 to report SSN misuse. You can also review your earnings record at ssa.gov/myaccount to confirm no unauthorized wages have been reported.
How long does it take to recover from identity theft?
Simple cases involving a few fraudulent accounts can be resolved in 1–3 months. Complex cases involving tax fraud, medical identity theft, or criminal identity theft can take 6–12 months but are still fully manageable without paying anyone.
What is a fraud alert and how long does it last?
A fraud alert tells lenders to take extra steps to verify your identity before opening new credit. An initial fraud alert lasts 1 year (free). An extended fraud alert lasts 7 years (requires an FTC or police report) and also removes you from prescreened credit offers.
What if my medical insurance was used fraudulently?
Contact your health insurer's fraud department in writing, request a copy of your benefits statements (Explanation of Benefits), and file a complaint with the HHS Office of Inspector General at oig.hhs.gov. The insurer must correct your medical records.
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