Form 14039 Instructions & Fax Guide 2026

What Is Form 14039?

Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit, is used to report tax-related identity theft to the IRS. If someone has used your Social Security number to file a fraudulent tax return, or if you suspect your personal information has been compromised for tax purposes, this form alerts the IRS and helps protect your tax account.

Why You Might Need Form 14039

You should file Form 14039 when you suspect or discover that your identity has been used for tax fraud. Common scenarios include:

• •Your tax return was rejected because a return was already filed using your SSN
• •You received an IRS notice about income you didn't earn or taxes you don't owe
• •You received a letter from the IRS about a tax return you didn't file
• •You were notified by a data breach that your SSN was exposed
• •The IRS sent you a notice indicating someone used your SSN for employment

Where to Fax Form 14039 in 2026

Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out & Fax Form 14039

Using FaxFlow to Send Form 14039 Easily

FaxFlow eliminates the hassle of traditional faxing. No driving to a fax machine, no busy signals, and no wondering if your form was received.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• •Forgetting to include a copy of your government-issued photo ID (required)
• •Not including a copy of your Social Security card or SSN documentation
• •Filing Form 14039 when you should use Form 14039-B (for business identity theft)
• •Not keeping a copy of the completed form and fax confirmation for your records
• •Waiting too long to file — report identity theft as soon as you discover it

FAQ Section

• What should I do if someone filed a tax return using my SSN?

  

  File Form 14039 immediately with the IRS by faxing it to 855-807-5720. Also file a report with the FTC at IdentityTheft.gov and consider placing a fraud alert on your credit reports.

• How long does the IRS take to resolve identity theft cases?

  

  The IRS typically resolves identity theft cases within 120 days, though complex cases may take longer. You'll receive a letter from the IRS acknowledging your affidavit.

• Do I need to include identification documents?

  

  Yes. You must include a clear, legible copy of a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport) and proof of your SSN (Social Security card, W-2, or 1099).

• Can I file Form 14039 online?

  

  Yes, you can submit Form 14039 online through the IRS Identity Protection tool. However, faxing provides a faster submission method with immediate delivery confirmation.

• Will I get an Identity Protection PIN after filing?

  

  Yes. After your identity theft case is resolved, the IRS will issue you an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) — a unique 6-digit number that prevents someone else from filing a tax return with your SSN.