Thursday, April 16, 2015

Tax Scams in 2015 Released



Tax Scams in 2015 Released

The Internal Revenue Service recently released the 2015 list of tax scams.  Here is information on four of them:

·         Identity theft:  Tax-related identity theft occurs when someone uses your stolen Social Security number (SSN) to file a tax return claiming a fraudulent refund.  Taxpayers need to watch out for identity theft especially around tax time.  The IRS continues to aggressively pursue the criminals that file fraudulent returns using someone else's Social Security number.  The IRS is making progress on this front but taxpayers still need to be extremely careful and do everything they can to avoid becoming a victim.  Here are a few tips:
o   Don’t carry your Social Security card or any documents that include your SSN or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
o   Don’t give a business your SSN or ITIN just because they ask.  Give it only when required.
o   Protect your financial information.
o   Check your credit report every 12 months.
o   Review your Social Security Administration statement annually.
o   Secure personal information in your home.
o   Protect your personal computers by using firewalls and anti-spam / virus software, updating security patches and changing passwords for internet accounts.
o   Don't give personal information over the phone, through the mail or the internet unless you have initiated the contact or you are sure you know who you are dealing with.
·         Phishing:  Taxpayers need to be on guard against fake emails or websites looking to steal personal information.  The IRS will not send you an email about a bill or refund out of the blue.  Don't click on one claiming to be from the IRS that takes you by surprise.  Taxpayers should be wary of clicking on strange emails and websites.  They may be scams to steal your personal information.
·         Phone scams:  Aggressive and threatening phone calls by criminals impersonating IRS agents remains an ongoing threat to taxpayers.  The IRS has seen a surge of these phone scams in recent months as scam artists threaten police arrest, license revocation and other things.  The IRS reminds taxpayers to guard against all sorts of con games that arise during any filing season.
·         Fake charities:  Taxpayers should be on guard against groups masquerading as charitable organizations to attract donations from unsuspecting contributors.  Contributors should take a few extra minutes to ensure their hard-earned money goes to legitimate and currently eligible charities.  IRS.gov has the tools taxpayers need to check out the status of charitable organizations.  Be wary of charities with names that are similar to familiar or nationally known organizations.

Call us at (219) 769-3616 with your questions, or email them to tlynch@swartz-retson.com.
Information from www.irs.gov.
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