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Report Identity Theft Quickly to Minimize Damage

Ten million Americans have their identity stolen every year. Even the most careful of us could fall prey to identity theft.

If you think your social security number, birth date, credit card or checkbook has been stolen, act swiftly to minimize damage.

Start by getting fraud alert to credit reporting agencies. Place a fraud alert on your credit report immediately by contacting Experian, Transunion or Equifax. If your state allows it, also request a security freeze to stop new accounts from being opened.
Close bank and credit card accounts and notify creditors.
Fill out an identity theft report with your local or state law enforcement. A police report is most important.
Then be sure you check all bank and credit card statements as soon as you receive them in the mail.
Report any purchases or debits that are not yours.

For more information, log on to the Identity Theft Resource Center at www.idtheft.org.

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If you provide more than half of an aging parent's support, you may be able to declare your parent a dependent even if he or she is not living in your home. In addition to getting the dependent deduction, you may also be able to take a tax deduction for your parent's medical expenses. To prove you pay the expenses, pay your parent's bills directly to the provider, rather than giving your parent(s) the money to pay the bill.

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