How IRS acts when it suspects a false ID is used

When thieves take someone’s Social Security number, they can use it to file a false tax return.  That amounts to tax-related identity stealing.  The IRS scans returns for possible fraud.  If a return is flagged as suspicious, IRS will pull it for further review.  Then it sends the taxpayer a letter, notifying of potential ID theft.  Until the taxpayer responds to the letter, the suspicious return won’t be processed.