Florida Private Investigators – Identity Theft After Death
As a Private Investigator, I always try to stay up on articles dealing with all aspects of investigations, including fraud. Whether it’s a local Fort Lauderdale/Miami newspaper or a national publication, it’s important to stay up to date. I recently read an article in the monthly AARP magazine. This article dealt with identities being stolen after death. Thieves use a dead persons information and social security numbers to file fake tax returns, apply for loans and credit cards.
According to the article, identities of the dead also figure in illegal work. A recent tax audit found that for the tax years 2006-2011, tax returns reporting $3 billion in income were filed using the social security numbers of 67,000 people born before June 16, 1902 – who would now be turning 114 or older.
When a loved one dies, here’s how to block ID theft:
- Immediately send death certificate copies by certified mail to the three main credit reporting bureaus. Request a deceased alert be placed on the credit report.
- Mail copies to banks, insurers and other financial institutions requesting account closures or change of joint ownership.
- Report death to the Social Security Administration at 800-772-1213 and the IRS at 800-829-1040. Also notify the DMV.
- In the obituaries, don’t include the deceased’s birthdate, place of birth, last address or job.
- Starting a month after the death, check the departed’s credit report for suspicious activity.
If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation and are in need of professional services, make sure the Private investigator is experienced in these types of cases. Proper background checks may also help identifying theft indicators.
If you are in need of services in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, or anywhere in Florida, contact a professional investigator.