Ayotte Welcomes IRS Policy Change to Help Identify Theft Victims

Press Release

U.S. Senator Kelly Ayotte today welcomed the news that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has implemented the policy change she requested to allow victims of tax-related identity theft to obtain copies of the fraudulent returns filed in their names. Earlier this year, Ayotte became aware of the issue after hearing from New Hampshire victims of identity theft who told her that the IRS' refusal to provide copies of fraudulent tax returns prevented them from knowing what information was stolen.

"This is an important step that will help victims of tax-related identity theft take action to protect themselves and their personal and financial information. Victims of identity theft face significant emotional and financial hardships, and they shouldn't be left in the dark about the extent of the theft," said Ayotte. "While this new tool will help many families who have been victimized, I remain concerned that it does not address the issue of victims who were claimed as dependents, as was the case for Lori Weeks' late daughter, Maddie. I will continue to seek ways to help Lori and other families who have been victimized in this fashion."

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