Tax Season is around the corner. Protect yourself from tax scammers.
As tax season approaches, so does the rise of tax scammers who are honing their deceitful techniques. Stay ahead of them by familiarizing yourself with their preferred and most successful methods. Here’s a guide on how to safeguard yourself this year:
- Phone Calls:
Be cautious of unexpected calls claiming to represent the IRS or another government agency. The caller might assert that you owe taxes, risking arrest if not paid immediately. In some cases, they may mention the suspension of your Social Security Number, prompting you to confirm it.
Remember:
- The Social Security Administration (SSA) and the IRS do not threaten benefits or involve law enforcement.
- Never share personal information over the phone, even if the caller knows the last four digits of your Social Security Number.
What You Can Do:
- Confirm your tax status on the IRS website.
- Verify information by calling the IRS (1-800-829-1040) or SSA (1-800-772-1213).
- Emails:
Beware of phishing emails posing as official IRS communications. These emails may contain links that lead to fake websites designed to capture your personal information.
What You Should Know:
- The IRS communicates only through the United States Postal Service.
- Fake IRS emails may have catchy subject lines and spoofed sender addresses.
What You Can Do:
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links.
- Report phishing emails to phishing@irs.gov.
- Tax Preparation:
Fraudulent tax preparers promise substantial refunds but may add fake deductions or credits to your return, leading to consequences like more taxes, interest, and penalties.
What You Should Know:
- Legitimate tax preparers sign your return and provide their Preparer Tax Identification Number.
- Scammers may demand cash payments without issuing receipts.
What You Can Do:
- Find a qualified tax professional listed on the IRS Directory.
- Review your return for accuracy and verify your bank information.
- Identity Theft:
If scammers obtain your Social Security Number, they can file a tax return in your name, claiming a refund that rightfully belongs to you.
What You Should Know:
- Regularly check your Social Security statement against your actual earnings.
- Filing your return early reduces the risk of scammers filing before you.
What You Can Do:
- Contact the Taxpayer Protection Program at 1-800-908-4490 if your return is rejected or if you suspect identity theft.
- Take immediate steps to address identity theft, including contacting credit bureaus and filing a complaint with the FTC.
Have questions on how we can help with your Payroll & tax preparation, give us a call at +1 (866) 210-0903. We are happy to help.
