Tax season is prime time for identity thieves. What to watch out for...

While you're getting things in order to file your taxes, watch out for anything from the IRS that says you've already filed...

It's a favorite scam of identity thieves who have somehow gotten their dirty hands on your social security number - and they strike early in the tax season. Here are some red flag notices to be on the lookout for from the IRS:

• More than one federal tax return has been filed in your name.

• You have a balance due.

• You have a refund offset.

• There is a collection against you from a prior year.

• A letter showing income from an employer you don't know.

Consumer Reports says, if you suspect fraud, respond immediately to the name and number on the correspondence. You’ll also have to fill out the IRS Identity Theft Affidavit, Form. Alert the agency if you’ve recently had an experience that could result in identity theft, such as a lost or stolen purse or wallet. The toll-free number for the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit is (800) 908-4490.