Tax Identity Theft Awareness Week 2020
Tax identity thieves and IRS imposters are ready for tax season whether you are or not. Join the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC) and its partners for Tax Identity Theft Awareness Week (January 3 through January 7, 2020) to find out how to protect yourself, and what to do if you or someone you know runs into problems.
Tax season is just getting underway and while some of us may put off filing our returns this year, the procrastinators don’t include tax identity thieves. They’re geared up and ready to file. Unfortunately, they may be ready to file to get your tax refund.
What is tax identity theft? It happens when someone uses your Social Security number (SSN) to file a fraudulent tax return and collect your refund. You may not find out it has happened until you try to file your real tax return and the IRS rejects it as a duplicate filing. While the IRS investigates, your tax refund can be seriously delayed.
Government imposter scammers are close cousins of tax identity thieves. They pretend they’re calling from the IRS or another government agency, generally claiming you owe the government money. They threaten you with arrest or other bad consequences unless you pay them right away, usually with a gift card or prepaid debit card. If you do, the money will be gone. Sometimes they’ll ask you to “confirm” your identity by giving them your SSN. They’re looking for information they can use for identity theft.
How can you stop tax identity theft?
One of the best ways is by filing as early as possible, beating a criminal to it.
Protect your SSN throughout the year. Don’t give it out unless there’s a good reason and you’re sure who you’re giving it to.
Use a secure internet connection if you file electronically, or mail your tax return directly from the post office.
Shred copies of tax returns, drafts or calculation sheets you no longer need.
Research a tax preparer thoroughly before you hand over personal information.
Check your credit report at least once a year for free at annualcreditreport.com.
If your SSN has been compromised, contact the IRS ID Theft Protection Specialized Unit at 1.800.908.4490.
Resources
Taxpayer Guide to Identity Theft.
Resource links:
https://www.idtheftcenter.org/tax-identity-theft-awareness-week-2020/
https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/tax-identity-theft-awareness