How to know if you've been a victim of identity theft

You may be a victim of identity theft and not have a clue that this has happened to you until you get a notice from the IRS telling you that --

* You filed more than one tax return, or someone has already filed using your information.

* You owe taxes for a year even though you didn't file a return because you weren't required to file.

* You were paid wages from an employer where you did not work.

If you get such a notice, the IRS wants you to respond immediately so that they can correct the problem and secure your tax account.