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Identity Theft

What to do if someone steals your ID

Identity Theft: Good Records

A Publication of the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse

22. Keep good records.

In dealing with the authorities and financial companies, keep a log of all conversations, including dates, names, and phone numbers.

Note the time you spent and any expenses incurred in case you are able to seek restitution in a later judgment or conviction against the thief.

You may be able to obtain tax deductio ns for theft-related expenses (26 U.S.C. §165(e) -- consult your accountant).

Confirm all conversations in writing.

Send correspondence using certified mail with return receipt requested.

Keep copies of all letters and documents.

Visit these web sites for tips on organizing your case:

•  FTC's guide Take Charge, http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/idtheft/idt04.shtm
•  Identity Theft Resource Center, http://www.idtheftmostwanted.org/artman2/publish/v_fact_sheets/Fact_Sheet_106_Organizing_Your_Identity_Theft_Case.shtml

• 1. Notify credit bureaus
• 2. Law Enforcement
• 3. Federal Trade Commission
• 4. Fraudulent Accounts
• 5. Creditors and Existing Accounts
• 6. Debt Collectors
• 7. Checking and Bank Fraud
• 8. ATM Cards
• 9. Brokerage Accounts
• 10. Mail Fraud
• 11. Secret Service
• 12. Social Security Misuse
• 13. Passports
• 14. Phone Service
• 15. Student Loans
• 16. Driver's License Misuse
• 17. ID Theft By People Known to You
• 18. Medical Identity Theft
• 19. Victim Statements
• 20. False Judgments
• 21. Legal Help
• 22. Keep Good Records
• 23. Other useful information
• 27. Resources