Identity Theft is an Issue When Filing Tax Returns

Police continue to take reports of identity theft from residents attempting to file their 2014 income taxes.

An 18-year-old LaPorte man told LaPorte Police that his parents recently attempted to file their tax return with him listed as a dependent. The tax return was rejected, citing that someone else had already claimed the victim as a dependent. The victim also attempted to access his credit score and learned that a credit card, mortgage and home equity loan were fraudulently established using his identity.

Officers encourage residents to take action once identity theft occurs. To learn more, visit www.consumer.ftc.gov. If you are having problems filing a tax return due to a stolen identity, visit the Indiana Department of Revenue’s website at www.in.gov/dor.