How to Report Stolen EIN Number
Dealing with a stolen Employer Identification Number (EIN) can be a daunting experience for any business owner. An EIN is a unique nine-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to identify a business entity for tax purposes. If your EIN falls into the wrong hands, it can be used for fraudulent activities, leading to severe consequences for your business. This article will guide you on how to report a stolen EIN number and the steps you should take to protect your business.
1. Contact the IRS
The first step in reporting a stolen EIN is to contact the IRS. You can do this by calling the IRS Business Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933. Be prepared to provide the following information:
- Your name, address, and contact information
- The stolen EIN number
- Details of how you discovered the theft
- Any evidence you have of the theft, such as correspondence or communication with the thief
2. Complete Form 14039
The IRS requires you to complete Form 14039, “Identity Theft Affidavit,” to report a stolen EIN. You can download the form from the IRS website or request a copy by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. Fill out the form with as much detail as possible, including the date and time of the theft, the method used to steal the EIN, and any other relevant information.
3. Send the form and supporting documents to the IRS
Once you have completed Form 14039, send it along with any supporting documents to the IRS. You can mail the documents to the following address:
Internal Revenue Service
Identity Protection Specialized Unit
P.O. Box 9039
Andover, MA 01810-9039
4. Notify other agencies and entities
After reporting the stolen EIN to the IRS, it’s essential to notify other agencies and entities that may have been affected. This includes:
- State tax agencies
- Financial institutions
- Business partners and vendors
- Insurance companies
5. Monitor your business accounts and credit
Keep a close eye on your business accounts and credit reports for any suspicious activity. Report any unauthorized transactions or inquiries immediately to the relevant institutions.
6. Consider placing a fraud alert on your credit report
Placing a fraud alert on your credit report can help prevent identity theft. You can request a fraud alert by contacting one of the three major credit bureaus:
- Equifax: 1-800-525-6285
- Experian: 1-888-397-3742
- TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289
By following these steps, you can effectively report a stolen EIN number and take the necessary precautions to protect your business from further harm.
