Colorado taxpayers could see a delay in their refunds of up to two months this year as the state works to crack down on identity theft.

The Department of Revenue said Thursday it is emphasizing fraud detection and prevention over the fast refunds taxpayers have experienced in the past.

“The department is asking taxpayers to be patient as it is better to be sure a refund is going to the correct party and not to data thieves who stand to benefit from stolen refunds,” a state news release said.

Officials say not all refunds will be impacted, but only those linked to filings that show signs of fraud.

Some taxpayers could receive a letter or other contact from the revenue department requesting that they verify their income tax information or an income tax refund, the state says.

“Taxpayers are highly encouraged to respond in a timely manner,” the release said.

Anyone with questions on the process can visit the Colorado taxation website, www.TaxColorado.com, and look for a specific representative under the “Contact Us” link for each tax type.

Jesse Paul: 303-954-1733, jpaul@denverpost.com or @JesseAPaul