Combating Identity Theft - Organize Your Case

Accurate and complete records will help you to resolve your identity theft case more quickly. Have a plan when you contact a company. Don't assume that the person you talk to will give you all the information or help you need.

Prepare a list of questions to ask the representative, as well as information about your identity theft. Don't end the call until you're sure you understand everything you've been told. If you need more help, ask to speak to a supervisor.

Write down the name of everyone you talk to, what he or she tells you, and the date the conversation occurred. At the end of the site, we’ll provide you with a form to plan out your course of action. Follow this course to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information you can.

Follow up in writing with all contacts you've made on the phone or in person. Use certified mail, return receipt requested, so you can document what the company or organization received and when. Keep copies of all correspondence or forms you send. Keep the originals of supporting documents, like police reports and letters to and from creditors; send copies only.

Set up a filing system for easy access to your paperwork. Keep old files even if you believe your case is closed. Once resolved, most cases stay resolved, but problems can crop up.

At this point, you can start the tedious task of contacting the companies you need to in order to get the problem cleared up.

Next article: Steps on How to Stop Your Identity Theft Problems

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