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Important Notice: Protect Yourself Against Tax Scams

The IRS has issued warnings about various tactics used by scammers to steal personal or business information and tax refunds. Here are some warning signs to watch out for:

Unsolicited Correspondence from the IRS: If you receive unexpected information from the IRS, such as a tax transcript or a new employer identification number, it could be a sign of attempted fraud to access your personal or business information.
Fake Form W-2 from Unknown Employers: Receiving a Form W-2 from an employer you've never worked for might indicate that someone is using your identity to gain employment and commit tax fraud.
Suspicious Notices from Tax Preparation Companies: Unexpected notices or emails from tax preparation companies about access to online accounts you didn't create could signal an attempt to gain unauthorized access to your tax information.
IRS Letters Regarding Nonexistent Income: Receiving letters from the IRS in a year you didn't earn income or file a tax return could indicate fraudulent activity, such as someone filing a tax return using your identity.

Beware of Unclaimed Refund Scams:

One prevalent scam involves letters or emails claiming you're entitled to a refund that was never claimed. These scams typically ask for personal information, such as a driver's license picture or bank routing details, under the guise of processing the refund. Be cautious of suspicious letters or emails asking for sensitive information.

How to Protect Yourself:

Verify Communications: The IRS does not initiate contact via email, text, or social media regarding unpaid taxes or unclaimed refunds. They primarily use postal mail for communication.
Confirm Authenticity: If you're unsure about a letter, email, or call claiming to be from the IRS, verify by calling known IRS helpline numbers, such as +1 800 829 1040 for individuals or +1 800 829 4933 for businesses.
Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect you've been targeted by a tax scam, report it to the IRS and follow their guidelines for managing tax-related identity theft and scams.

Stay informed and stay protected this tax season. Don't let scammers jeopardize your financial security. If you have any questions or need personalized assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out.