How to File an FTC Identity Theft Report

What Is the FTC Identity Theft Report?

The FTC Identity Theft Report is an official document that serves as proof of identity theft. It's crucial for disputing fraudulent accounts, extending fraud alerts, and recovering from identity theft.

Why You Need It

• Creates official record of identity theft
• Required for 7-year extended fraud alert
• Helps prove fraud to creditors and collectors
• Provides legal protections under FCRA
• Assists with police reports
• Blocks fraudulent information from credit reports
• Stops debt collectors from pursuing fraudulent debts

How to File: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Go to IdentityTheft.gov

The official FTC website for reporting identity theft.

Step 2: Click "Get Started"

Begin the reporting process.

Step 3: Provide Your Information

• Name and contact information
• Social Security number
• Date of birth
• Current and previous addresses

Step 4: Describe the Identity Theft

Select all that apply:

• Credit card fraud
• Bank account fraud
• Loan fraud
• Government benefits fraud
• Tax fraud
• Medical services fraud
• Other types

Step 5: Provide Details

For each type of fraud, provide:

• When you discovered it
• Account numbers or details
• Amounts involved
• Creditor/company names
• Any suspected identity of thief (if known)

Step 6: Upload Supporting Documents

• Police report (if you have one)
• Bills showing fraudulent charges
• Letters from creditors
• Account statements
• Credit reports with fraud circled

Step 7: Review and Submit

• Review all information for accuracy
• Certify statement is true
• Submit report

Step 8: Get Your Report

• Print PDF copy immediately
• Save digital copy
• Note your report ID number
• You can access it later with account

What You'll Receive

Identity Theft Affidavit

Official document stating you're a victim of identity theft.

Recovery Plan

Personalized step-by-step plan based on your situation:

• Specific actions to take
• Agencies to contact
• Sample letters to send
• Checklist to track progress

Sample Letters

Pre-written letters for:

• Credit bureaus
• Creditors
• Debt collectors
• Businesses

Using Your FTC Report

With Credit Bureaus

• Request extended 7-year fraud alert
• Block fraudulent information
• Support disputes

With Creditors

• Prove identity theft
• Close fraudulent accounts
• Remove fraudulent charges

With Debt Collectors

• Stop collection on fraudulent debts
• Assert your identity theft victim rights
• Request they cease reporting debt

With Police

• Support police report filing
• Provide detailed fraud description
• Document for authorities

Updating Your Report

If you discover additional fraud:

• Log back into IdentityTheft.gov
• Access your report
• Add new information
• Generate updated PDF

Important Notes

• Filing is completely free
• Available 24/7 online
• No need to call or mail
• Creates secure account to access later
• Can file on behalf of minor child
• Can file on behalf of deceased person (as executor)

What It Does NOT Do

• Doesn't investigate the crime
• Doesn't catch the identity thief
• Doesn't automatically fix your credit
• Doesn't guarantee creditors will cooperate
• Isn't a police report (you need both)

After Filing

Immediate Actions

• Print multiple copies
• File police report with copy of FTC report
• Send to credit bureaus for extended alert
• Send to creditors with fraudulent accounts

Keep Records

• Save digital and physical copies
• Note report ID
• Track who you send it to
• Keep for at least 7 years

Alternative: Paper Form

If unable to file online:

• Download form at ftc.gov/idtheft
• Complete manually
• Mail to address on form
• Less convenient than online

Help Available

FTC provides support:

• Phone: 1-877-ID-THEFT (438-4338)
• TTY: 1-866-653-4261
• Available in multiple languages
• Counselors can help with questions