Protecting Your Identity

We’ve all heard stories in the news about identify theft and the adverse effects it has on people.  While it is increasingly common, most cases are not as drastic as you hear on the news.  In many cases, the theft is caught quickly and before a lot of money is stolen.

Many of us know what to do to prevent the theft from occurring, but do you know what to do once it happens?

The first step is to call your bank or card issuer and have them stop the card.  Ask them to send you a report of all recent activity.

The second step is to visit your local police station and file a report.  This sounds drastic and dramatic, however, in many cases is necessary for the bank to refund you your money.  Ask for a case number and an officers name.  Make sure you also have a phone number to ask questions at a later time.

Follow up with your bank and ask them how many days they will take to investigate and how many days it will be before you will see the money back in your account.  Keeping records of this whole process is critical.  Sadly, the burden will lie with you to follow up with all parties involved and to file all necessary paperwork.

Take a look at our identity theft brochure.
The Joyful Organizer’s Identity Theft Brochure