You’re certainly aware of rapidly approaching tax day on Tuesday, April 17, but are you aware of the rampant scams during tax season? The most prevalent to watch for are IRS imposters and tax identity theft.
The goal of scammers is to uncover your personal information to file fake tax returns using your Social Security number, claiming your children as dependents or using a deceased person’s information to claim a tax refund. The IRS has issued a warning to taxpayers to ignore phone calls, texts or emails regarding your taxes. The IRS only connects with taxpayers through mailed letters.
Also beware of any communication asking for immediate payment or your personal information. The IRS will never ask for your debit or credit card information. If you aren’t sure if a communication you have received is legitimate, call the IRS at 800-829-1040 for verification.
On top of phony communications from IRS imposters, scammers can operate through a fake tax preparation service or by stealing your mail or tax returns. To help protect yourself at any time of the year, it’s important to:
Shred personal or financial documents
Never give out personal information unless you’ve verified the legitimacy of person asking and why they need the information
This tax season, be sure to check your refund status at www.irs.gov/refunds. Another resource is the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit. If you think you’re a victim of Tax ID Theft, call the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit, 800-908-4490, or visit www.irs.gov/identitytheft.
And of course, our office is always here to help with any of your financial needs. Call us with questions or to set up an appointment today.
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