Tax season has just started and there are many ways that scammers try to steal your money or get your personal information.
Per the Internal Revenue Service (IRS); “Thousands of people have lost millions of dollars and their personal information to tax scams. Scammers use the regular mail, telephone, or email to set up individuals, businesses, payroll and tax professionals”.
It is important to be aware of the signs of a scam and the known scams that are targeting taxpayers. For more information and examples of scams, visit the IRS’s website. It is also important to remember that “the IRS doesn't initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text messages or social media channels to request personal or financial information”.
When filing taxes, many consumers look to utilize software or contract with companies that make claims about the products being free or guarantee that you will receive a large refund. Unfortunately, there may end up being additional fees or hidden surcharges that you need to look out for.
The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance reminds consumers that you can file for free, “using the Free File software available on the Tax Department website. If your 2022 income is $73,000 or less, you can file both your federal and New York State returns at no cost through the Tax Department website using Free File”.
If you have been scammed or have questions about avoiding a tax-related scam, please contact our office for assistance. The Erie County Office of Consumer Protection can be reached by phone at 716-858-1987 or via email to consumerprotection@erie.gov.
New York State Department of Taxation and Finance. “The income tax filing season is now underway: Time to Free File.” Bulk email. 24 January 2023.
Tax Scams/Consumer Alerts. Internal Revenue Service. https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-scams-consumer-alerts
