IRS Form 13072 – If you’ve been a victim or witness in a criminal investigation handled by IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), you may have received IRS Form 13072, officially titled Victim Witness Assistance. This free informational brochure explains your rights, available support services, and practical resources during and after an IRS-CI case involving financial crimes, tax fraud, identity theft, or related offenses.
In this comprehensive guide, we cover everything you need to know about IRS Form 13072, why it exists, what it contains, and how to access the latest version directly from the official IRS website.
What Is IRS Form 13072?
IRS Form 13072 (Rev. 2-2012) is not a tax return form you file with the IRS. Instead, it is a 2-page informational brochure produced by IRS Criminal Investigation to assist victims and witnesses of federal crimes investigated by the agency.
- Catalog Number: 31901S
- Revision Date: February 2012 (still the current version as of February 2026)
- Posted Date on IRS.gov: July 17, 2012
The brochure is distributed by IRS-CI special agents or Victim/Witness Coordinators to individuals involved in active investigations. It addresses common challenges faced by victims and witnesses, such as harassment, financial losses, and navigating the federal criminal justice process.
Direct PDF Download:
https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f13072.pdf (official IRS source – always download from IRS.gov for the most trusted version).
Purpose of IRS Form 13072 – Victim Witness Assistance
The primary goal of the brochure is to inform and empower victims and witnesses during IRS-CI investigations. IRS Criminal Investigation recognizes that cooperating with federal law enforcement can create stress, safety concerns, and financial hardship.
Key purposes include:
- Explaining victims’ rights under federal law.
- Providing contact information for your assigned IRS-CI Victim/Witness Coordinator.
- Listing free resources for financial fraud, identity theft, and other related issues.
- Offering practical advice on protecting yourself (e.g., registering for the National Do Not Call Registry).
- Highlighting potential tax-deductible losses and how to seek compensation.
The form emphasizes: “As a Federal law enforcement agency, IRS-Criminal Investigation is concerned about the problems often experienced by victims and witnesses of crime.”
Your Rights as a Victim or Witness (Summarized from Form 13072)
Under federal law (primarily the Crime Victims’ Rights Act), you have the right to:
- Reasonable protection from the offender.
- Reasonable, accurate, and timely notice of any public court proceeding or parole proceeding.
- Be present at all public court proceedings (unless the court determines otherwise).
- Be reasonably heard at any public proceeding involving release, plea, sentencing, or parole.
- Confer with the government attorney in the case.
- Full and timely restitution as provided by law.
- Proceedings free from unreasonable delay.
- Be treated with fairness and with respect for your dignity and privacy.
If you feel threatened or harassed because of your cooperation, contact your IRS-CI Victim/Witness Coordinator immediately—they can discuss protective measures.
Key Sections and Resources in the Brochure
The back page of Form 13072 includes helpful contact numbers and organizations tailored for victims of financial crimes:
Immediate Contacts
- Your IRS-CI Victim/Witness Coordinator (name and phone filled in by the special agent).
Additional Resources for Victims of Financial Fraud
- IRS Identity Theft Unit: 1-800-908-4490
- Taxpayer Advocate Service: 1-877-777-4778
- IRS Tax Fraud Referral Hotline: 1-800-829-0433
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC): 1-877-FTC-HELP (www.ftc.gov)
- Office for Victims of Crime: 1-888-400-5530 (www.ovc.gov)
- Identity Theft Resource Center: 1-888-400-5530 (www.idtheftcenter.org)
- Eldercare Locator (for seniors): 1-800-677-1116 (www.eldercare.gov)
- National Organization for Victim Assistance: 1-800-879-6682 (www.try-nova.org)
- U.S. Postal Inspection Service (mail fraud): 1-877-876-2455
- Social Security Administration OIG (SSN fraud): 1-800-269-0271
Telemarketing Harassment Tip
Register your phone numbers (home and cell) for free at www.donotcall.gov or by calling 1-888-382-1222 from the phone you want to register.
Financial Recovery Notes
- State crime victim compensation programs may cover medical expenses, lost wages, and counseling (especially for violent crimes). Ask your coordinator for details.
- Some financial losses may be tax-deductible. Save all related paperwork and consult a qualified tax advisor or the IRS for guidance.
Who Should Use or Request IRS Form 13072?
- Victims or witnesses in active IRS Criminal Investigation cases (e.g., tax evasion schemes, fraudulent returns, money laundering, identity theft rings investigated by IRS-CI).
- Anyone contacted by an IRS special agent who wants more information about their rights and support services.
- Family members supporting victims in IRS-CI matters.
Note: This brochure is specific to IRS-CI cases. For general IRS identity theft issues not involving criminal investigation, use Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit) and visit IRS.gov/identity-theft-central.
How to Obtain IRS Form 13072?
- Download instantly → Official PDF
- Request a printed copy from your IRS-CI special agent or Victim/Witness Coordinator.
- Search “Form 13072” on IRS.gov (it appears in the Forms & Instructions database).
No login, SSN, or personal information is required to download it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About IRS Form 13072
Do I have to file or submit Form 13072?
No. It is purely informational and does not need to be completed or returned to the IRS.
Is there a newer version than February 2012?
As of February 2026, no. The IRS continues to list and distribute the Rev. 2-2012 edition.
Can I claim tax deductions for losses mentioned in the brochure?
Yes, certain theft or fraud losses may be deductible. Refer to IRS Publication 547 (Casualties, Disasters, and Thefts) or speak with a tax professional. The brochure explicitly advises saving documentation.
What if I’m not in an IRS-CI case but a victim of tax-related identity theft?
Contact the IRS Identity Theft Victim Assistance unit directly or file Form 14039. The dedicated page is IRS.gov/individuals/how-irs-id-theft-victim-assistance-works.
Is Form 13072 the same as victim compensation?
No. It provides information about compensation programs but does not process claims. Your state’s crime victim compensation program handles applications.
Why This Brochure Matters in 2026?
IRS Criminal Investigation remains one of the primary federal agencies combating financial crimes, including sophisticated tax fraud, employment tax evasion, and refund fraud. Providing clear victim support through materials like Form 13072 helps maintain public trust and encourages cooperation in investigations.
Final Thoughts and Next Steps
If you are involved in an IRS-CI investigation or have received IRS Form 13072, remember: you are not alone. Reach out to your assigned Victim/Witness Coordinator first—they are your direct point of contact for personalized assistance.
For immediate help:
- Download the brochure today: IRS Form 13072 PDF
- Call the numbers listed inside if you need urgent support.
Stay safe, document everything, and know your rights. The IRS Criminal Investigation team created this resource specifically to help people like you navigate the process with dignity and support.
Sources: All information is drawn directly from the official IRS Form 13072 PDF and current IRS.gov listings (verified February 2026). Always verify the latest details on IRS.gov, as federal resources can evolve.
If your situation involves active threats, identity theft, or tax issues, contact the appropriate hotline listed above or your local IRS-CI office immediately.