09 Mar Tax identity theft alert from AARP New Jersey
by AARP New Jersey
How it Works:
Tax identity theft occurs when someone steals your personal information for a fraudulent refund or to earn wages. It can involve:
• Filing a tax return using another person’s Social Security number.
• Claiming someone else’s children as dependents.
• Claiming a tax refund using a deceased taxpayer’s information.
What Are The Signs:
• Your Social Security number is lost, stolen or compromised.
• Your tax refund is delayed.
• You receive a notice from the IRS stating it has received a duplicate tax return filing, you have unreported income, or you and somebody else are claiming the same dependents.
What You Should Do:
To avoid becoming a victim of tax identity theft:
• Submit your tax return as early in the tax season as possible.
• Be careful what you share – don’t give out your personal information unless you know who is asking and why, and don’t be shy about refusing!
• Dispose of sensitive information safely – shred it with a micro-cut shredder.
• Know your tax preparer.
Check the status of your refund after filing at www.irs.gov/refunds. If you think someone filed a fraudulent refund with your information, call the IRS Identity Theft line at 800-908-4490. To learn more, visit www.ftc.gov/taxidtheft.
P.S. Spotted a scam? Tell us about it. Our scam-tracking map gives you information about the latest scams targeting people in your state. You’ll also find first-hand accounts from scam-spotters who are sharing their experiences so you know how to protect yourself and your family.
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