It’s that time of year…. If you are among the millions of last minute tax filers, it is very important to be on guard against con artists who prey on our collective fear of the IRS. A few tips:
Stick with legitimate preparers who work from an office or storefront. While I do know legitimate tax preparers who work from home, there is a higher risk of dealing with a scam artist. Some criminals rent an apartment for a month (under an assumed name), distribute flyers offering cut rate tax preparation and then steal your private information. They can also arrange for your refund to be electronically deposited in their own bank account-before skipping town for good.
Beware of an empty waiting room- This time of year, a reputable tax preparer’s office should be a very busy place!
The IRS will not call or e-mail you. They prefer snail mail. The IRS has issued helpful guidance alerting us to the fact that they do not initiate contact with a taxpayer by phone or e-mail.
The IRS will not visit you unannounced. If agents appear at your door, they are most likely scam artists or practical jokers.
Ann Margaret Carrozza is a practicing attorney who also served as a New York State Assemblywoman. She is a regular legal contributor to TV and print media outlets. www.myelderlawattorney.com
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