After identity theft, ‘what do I do now?’ is the hardest question. The FTC’s IdentityTheft.gov answers it with a personal recovery plan — but only if you know what to ask. Here are the questions that matter.
What exactly is a recovery plan? It is a step-by-step checklist generated from the details you enter about your situation — which accounts were misused, what information was stolen, and what has happened so far. It is free, official, and tailored rather than generic.
How do I get one? You file a report at IdentityTheft.gov, answering questions about the theft. The site then builds your plan: who to contact, what to say, and in what order. You can save, print, or update it as things change.
What documents will I need along the way? Typically a government-issued photo ID, proof of address, your Social Security number, and the Identity Theft Report the site generates for you. Creditors and bureaus may ask for copies of these during disputes, so keep them handy.
Does the plan cover non-credit fraud? Yes. The questionnaire covers tax fraud, medical identity theft, misuse of personal information for utilities or government benefits, and more. Your plan reflects whichever types apply to you.
How long does recovery take? It varies. Simple cases with one fraudulent account can resolve in weeks; complex cases with multiple account types can take months. The plan helps you track open items so nothing slips.
Is this really free? Yes. IdentityTheft.gov is run by the Federal Trade Commission, and there is no charge for the report or the plan. Be wary of any private company charging you for what the FTC provides free — and never pay anyone who promises to erase accurate information.
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