Protecting Your Identity This Tax Season
If you’re an online tax prep user, you may notice some changes this season. Your account might log off more quickly after periods of inactivity or you may have fewer chances to re-enter your password after a log-in error.
These changes in online services such as TaxSlayer and TurboTax are part of an effort by the IRS, states, and the tax-preparation industry to reduce the amount of tax fraud.
Often, defrauders will use a stolen social security number to file an illicit return and claim the refund. A big way to prevent this is by filing early. This year, the tax deadline is Monday, April 18 (April 19 in Maine and Massachusetts).
This tax season, also be wary of any phone calls, emails, or social media messages you receive from so-called IRS personnel. Fraud involving IRS impersonators increases during tax season so it’s helpful to remember a few important facts.
First, the IRS does not request personal or financial information over phone, email, or social media.
Second, the IRS does not request payments or credit card information over the phone.
Third, the IRS does require payment without the possibility of appeal nor will they threaten to arrest you if payments are not made.
If you receive a suspicious phone call or email, call the IRS at 800-366-4484 or at treasury.gov/titga/contact_report_scam.shtml.
You might be wondering how you will know if you are the victim of identity fraud. You will likely get a notice from the IRS saying that you collected wages from an employer you do not recognize or that someone has already filed a return with your Social Security number.
If this occurs, report the theft to the Federal Trade Commission at ftc.gov. You can then set up a fraud alert with one of the three credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion — and whichever you choose will communicate the alert to the others. All three will offer free credit reports. In addition, you can request a credit freeze to ensure that no credit can be issued without your permission.
Finally, go to irs.gov to fill out a Form 14039 — an Identity Theft Affidavit — and the IRS will issue you an IP PIN (identity protection personal identification number). Note: Any resident of the District of Colombia, Florida, or Georgia can request an IP PIN as part of an IRS pilot program.
Please be cautious this tax season to protect your identity. ELM3 would love to assist you in filing your tax return as early as possible and in making sure your information is as secure as it can be.
Source: Consumer Report
