The document summarizes key findings from an Experian Consumer Tax Survey conducted in January 2016 with 1,000 US adults who file tax returns. Some of the main findings include:
- Most consumers now prepare and file their taxes electronically and store tax documents digitally.
- Awareness and concern about tax-related identity theft has increased significantly in recent years.
- While awareness of new IRS protections is growing, many consumers remain unfamiliar with the IRS-issued identity protection PIN and victims' ability to request copies of fraudulent returns.
- The survey found interest among consumers in using an IRS-issued PIN to protect against tax-related identity theft when filing taxes.
Survey methodology
The data points referenced above come from a study commissioned by ConsumerInfo.com, Inc., an Experian company, produced by research firm Edelman Berland and conducted as an online survey of n=1,000 adults nationwide, ages 18+ that file tax returns. Interviewing took place from January 2-7, 2016. The margin of error is plus or minus 3.1 percent.