What Is an Identity Theft Affidavit?

The FTC has created a new tool to help victims reclaim their good names. The FTC’s new ID Theft Affidavit is a form that allows victims to report relevant information to almost any company involved. The form is especially helpful in cases where the thief used the victim’s information to open new accounts. Before the introduction of the ID Theft Affidavit, victims typically had to complete dozens of separate forms for each account the thief opened. Created by the FTC with the help of banks, creditors, and consumer advocates, the form is accepted by most retailers, banks, creditors, and other financial institutions.

About the Affidavit

Some companies now require consumers to complete the ID Theft Affidavit before they can acquire records regarding the identity theft. Such records will assist you in proving to law enforcement agencies that your identity was stolen. These records may also reveal important information about the thief that law enforcement officers can use. The ID Theft Affidavit has two sections:

1. Part 1: The ID Theft Affidavit: where consumers describe general information about themselves and the incident.
2. Part 2: The Fraudulent Account Statement: where consumers describe the accounts that were opened in their names fraudulently. You should use a separate account statement for each creditor.

What It Does

The ID Theft Affidavit can:

1. Prevent fraudulent information from showing up on your credit report
2. Make sure that fraudulent debts do not resurface on your report
3. Stop a creditor from continuing to try to collect a debt
4. Get an extended fraud alert

Using the Affidavit

Using the Identity Theft Affidavit is simple. Here are some tips to guide you:

• Include copies of corroborating documentation with the affidavit. For example, you might include a copy of the related police report.
• File the ID Theft Affidavit within two weeks of becoming aware of the incident. Waiting to send in the form will stall the investigation.
• Be accurate and thorough. You don’t have to include all of the information requested on the form, but the more details you provide, the faster the issue will resolve.
• Once the affidavit is complete, mail it to every company, creditor, or bank that issued services, credit, or goods to the identity thief.
• Send the documents via certified mail and request a return receipt. Maintain copies of everything you send.