Tax Scams: Know the Red Flags
Throughout the year, scammers may impersonate the IRS, financial institutions or tax professionals in an attempt to steal your money or personal information. Knowing what to watch for can help you recognize a scam before it becomes a problem.
Be skeptical of unexpected messages
Be extra vigilant if an email, text, phone call or letter:
- Creates a sense of urgency and/or threatens immediate consequences
- Promises a refund, credit or deduction that you weren’t expecting
- Requests personal and/or financial information
- Demands immediate payment
- Asks you to click a link or open an unexpected attachment
- Instructs you to use an unusual payment method
Slow down before you respond
If you receive a suspicious message about your bank account, taxes or a government payment, don’t use the phone number, email address or link provided in the message.
Instead, contact the organization directly using contact information you know is legitimate. If someone claiming to be from your bank calls unexpectedly, hang up and call the bank using the number on your statement, debit card or the institution’s official website.
And be especially cautious about requests to share your screen. A legitimate financial institution or government agency should never ask you to give an unexpected caller access to your computer or mobile device.
When in doubt, check it out
If you receive a suspicious tax-related communication, don’t hesitate to contact us.
The IRS maintains information about common tax scams and what to do if you believe you’ve been targeted.
Tax Organization: Made Simpler with a New Client Portal
Imagine a simpler way to work with us during tax season. Our new client portal will give you one secure place to upload documents, exchange information with our team and access your tax-related files.
Our goal? To make sharing information with us feel simple, secure and straightforward.
More to come soon.
Save the Date: Essential Estate Planning Conversations
Thursday, September 17 | 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Join us for Essential Estate Planning Conversations, a thoughtful discussion about the family decisions that can make estate planning feel complicated and how to begin having those conversations. More details and registration information coming soon.
