Instructions
for completing the ID Theft Affidavit
To make
certain that you do not become responsible for the debts incurred by the identity
thief, you must provide proof that you didn't create the debt to each of the companies
where accounts where opened or used in your name. A working group composed of
credit grantors,
consumer advocates and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
developed this ID Theft Affidavit to help you report information to many companies
using just one standard form. Use of
this affidavit is optional for companies.
While many companies accept this affidavit, others require that you submit more
or different forms. Before you send the affidavit, contact each company to find
out if they accept it. You can use this affidavit where a new account was opened
in your name. The information will enable the companies to investigate the fraud
and
decide the outcome of your claim. (If someone made unauthorized charges to an
existing
account, call the company to find out what to do.)
This
affidavit has two parts: ¦ ID Theft Affidavit is where you report general
information about yourself and the theft. Fraudulent Account Statement is where
you describe the fraudulent account(s) opened in your name. Use a separate Fraudulent
Account Statement for each company you need to write to. When you send the affidavit
to the companies, attach copies (NOT originals) of any supporting documents (for
example, drivers license, police report) you have. Before submitting your affidavit,
review the disputed account(s) with family members
or friends who may have
information about the account(s) or access to them.
Complete this affidavit
as soon as possible.
Many creditors ask that you send it within two weeks of
receiving it. Delaying could slow the
investigation. Be as accurate and complete
as possible. You may choose not to provide some of the information requested.
However, incorrect or incomplete information will slow the process of investigating
your claim and absolving the debt. Please print clearly. When you have finished
completing the affidavit, mail a copy to each creditor, bank or company that provided
the thief with the unauthorized credit, goods or services you describe.
Attach
to each affidavit a copy of the Fraudulent Account Statement with information
only on
accounts opened at the institution receiving the packet, as well as
any other supporting documentation you are able to provide. Send the appropriate
documents to each company by certified mail, return receipt requested, so you
can prove that it was received. The companies will review your claim and send
you a written response telling you the outcome of
their investigation. Keep
a copy of everything you submit for your records. If you cannot complete the affidavit,
a legal guardian or someone with power of attorney may
complete it for you.
Except as noted, the information you provide will be used only by the company
to process your affidavit, investigate the events you report and help stop further
fraud. If this affidavit is requested in a lawsuit, the company might have to
provide it to the requesting party. Completing this affidavit does not guarantee
that the identity thief will be prosecuted or that the debt will be cleared.