How do you Protect Yourself from Tax-Related Identity Theft?

A recently-released survey by taxAudit.com of 2,000 Americans on the subject of tax scams noted that nearly 80 percent of Americans feel vulnerable to a tax scam or tax related identity theft. Certainly, you can be sure that James Hamlin & Co. is vigilant in keeping your identity safe. Knowing you have a trustworthy tax preparer you can count on, will provide you with a peace of mind.

Here are a few more things you can do to help ease your mind and keep your identity secure:

• Place tax documents in a secure location, such as a safe or a locking file cabinet, and store them there until needed to prepare tax forms. Do not leave them in a car.
• Do not follow links in emails or text messages to the IRS site. Always type “irs.gov” directly into a browser to avoid vicious links. Report fraudulent IRS emails, texts or phone calls to phishing@irs.gov.
• If someone calls you claiming to be from the IRS or another tax authority and asks for money, hang up right away.
• Similarly, if someone calls you claiming to be from the IRS or another tax authority and needs to “verify” some information – like a PIN number or bank account number, hang up immediately.
• If a person e-mails you and offers assistance in helping you receive your tax refund, that person is a fraud. The IRS does not contact taxpayers via e-mail.

If you do fall victim to a tax scam, seek guidance from the many resources available at IRS.gov.