Where do I file an FTC Identity Theft Report?

At IdentityTheft.gov — the official Federal Trade Commission portal. It is free and generates a personalised recovery plan plus an FTC Identity Theft Report you can send to creditors.

What is the difference between an FTC report and a police report?

The FTC report documents the theft and creates your recovery plan. A police report is sometimes required by creditors and banks. IdentityTheft.gov tells you when you need both.

How long does the FTC identity theft process take?

Filing takes 15–30 minutes. The recovery plan is immediate. Removing fraudulent accounts from credit reports typically takes 30–90 days once you send the FTC report to each creditor and bureau.

Is IdentityTheft.gov really free?

Yes. Any site asking for payment to 'file your FTC report' is fraudulent. The FTC also never calls demanding fees or gift cards.

What should I do before filing?

Place a free fraud alert with one of the three credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion — they share alerts), collect any fraudulent statements, and note dates, dollar amounts, and account numbers.

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How to File an FTC Identity Theft Report

A step-by-step guide to filing your FTC Identity Theft Report at IdentityTheft.gov, getting a personalised recovery plan, and using it to clear fraudulent accounts.

Key Takeaways

File at IdentityTheft.gov — the only official FTC portal. It is free.
Place a free 1-year fraud alert with any one credit bureau first.
The report unlocks a personalised recovery plan and pre-filled dispute letters.
Send the FTC report to each creditor and bureau to remove fraudulent accounts.
Keep copies of every letter, confirmation number and email for at least 7 years.

Step 1 — Place a fraud alert (5 minutes)

Contact one of Equifax, Experian or TransUnion — they share alerts. A free one-year fraud alert forces lenders to verify your identity before issuing new credit. Upgrade to a credit freeze for stronger protection.

Step 2 — Gather evidence

Collect fraudulent statements, breach notification letters, debt-collector letters, and any communications from the thief. Note dates, dollar amounts, account numbers and merchant names.

Step 3 — File at IdentityTheft.gov

Go directly to IdentityTheft.gov. Create an account, select what happened, and answer the prompts. The site generates your FTC Identity Theft Report and a step-by-step recovery plan with pre-filled letters.

Step 4 — File a police report (when required)

Some creditors require an Identity Theft Report that includes a police report. Bring your FTC report, government ID, proof of address, and your evidence to your local police station. Ask for a copy of the filed report.

Step 5 — Dispute fraudulent accounts

Send the FTC Identity Theft Report (plus the police report if obtained) to each creditor, bank and credit bureau. Use certified mail with return receipt. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, bureaus must block fraudulent items within 4 business days.

Step 6 — Watch for follow-on scams

Identity theft victims are heavily targeted by recovery-scam calls and emails. The FTC never calls demanding payment. Run any 'recovery firm' or website through Scam AI before engaging.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I file an FTC Identity Theft Report?: At IdentityTheft.gov — the official Federal Trade Commission portal. It is free and generates a personalised recovery plan plus an FTC Identity Theft Report you can send to creditors.
What is the difference between an FTC report and a police report?: The FTC report documents the theft and creates your recovery plan. A police report is sometimes required by creditors and banks. IdentityTheft.gov tells you when you need both.
How long does the FTC identity theft process take?: Filing takes 15–30 minutes. The recovery plan is immediate. Removing fraudulent accounts from credit reports typically takes 30–90 days once you send the FTC report to each creditor and bureau.
Is IdentityTheft.gov really free?: Yes. Any site asking for payment to 'file your FTC report' is fraudulent. The FTC also never calls demanding fees or gift cards.
What should I do before filing?: Place a free fraud alert with one of the three credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion — they share alerts), collect any fraudulent statements, and note dates, dollar amounts, and account numbers.