December 12, 2008, Newsletter Issue #82: FTC Identity Theft Affidavit Makes Recovery Easier

Tip of the Week

Depending on how deep and widespread the crime is, an identity fraud victim can spend a lot of hours filling out reporting forms and claim notices, writing letters, and keeping records. To help make the reporting and recovery process easier, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) created an Identity Theft Affidavit in cooperation with banks, credit grantors and consumer advocates. The intent was to make a single reporting form for use by identity theft victims that is universally accepted. You can fill it out once and use it with nearly all companies who require a fraud report. Coupled with a copy of the police report, these documents are the foundation of restoring your financial history after being victimized by identity theft.



You should also file a complaint with the FTC. It serves as the federal clearinghouse for identity theft victims and assists them by providing information and resource referrals to resolve financial and other problems that result from identity theft. They have a wide range of publications and how-to documents for identity theft victims. The FTC also refers victim complaints to appropriate organizations and government agencies for further action and or investigation.



To file a complaint or to get a copy of the Identity Theft Affidavit, contact the FTC online or use the identity theft hotline at 877-438-4338.



To contact the FTC by mail, write to:



Identity Theft Clearinghouse

Federal Trade Commission

600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20580

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