How to Report Stolen Stimulus Check
With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the government has been issuing stimulus checks to help individuals and families cope with the economic impact. However, as with any financial aid program, there are instances where stimulus checks are stolen or misused. If you find yourself in a situation where your stimulus check has been stolen, it’s crucial to report it promptly. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to report a stolen stimulus check.
1. Contact the IRS
The first step in reporting a stolen stimulus check is to contact the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). You can do this by calling the IRS’s toll-free number at 1-800-829-1040. Be prepared to provide your Social Security number, date of birth, and other personal information to verify your identity.
2. File a Report with the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA)
In addition to contacting the IRS, you should also file a report with the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA). TIGTA is responsible for detecting and preventing fraud in federal programs, including the stimulus check program. You can file a report online at https://www.treasury.gov/tigta/contact_report_sfra.shtm.
3. Keep Documentation
It’s essential to keep any documentation related to the stolen stimulus check. This includes your bank statements, the letter you received from the IRS, and any other correspondence. These documents will be helpful when you need to provide evidence of the theft to the IRS or other authorities.
4. Check Your Bank Account Regularly
After reporting the stolen stimulus check, keep a close eye on your bank account. If you notice any unauthorized transactions, report them to your bank immediately. This will help prevent further financial loss.
5. Apply for a Replacement Stimulus Check
Once you’ve reported the stolen stimulus check to the IRS, you can apply for a replacement. You can do this by visiting the IRS’s Get My Payment tool at https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/get-my-payment. You’ll need to provide your Social Security number, date of birth, and bank account information to apply for a replacement.
6. Follow Up
After reporting the stolen stimulus check, it’s important to follow up with the IRS and TIGTA. Make sure they have all the necessary information and keep track of the progress of your case. This will help ensure that the stolen funds are recovered and that you receive a replacement stimulus check.
Reporting a stolen stimulus check can be a daunting task, but it’s essential to take action promptly. By following these steps, you can help protect yourself from financial loss and ensure that the stolen funds are addressed appropriately.
