CT Home Buyers And Owners – Watch Out For Tax Scam Artists!

 Deborah  203.994.4297

CT Home Buyer and CT Home Sellers--This time of year brings out many tax--scam artists who prey on low-income consumers and unknowing seniors. Here are few tips that can hopefully keep you aware of the scams.

·         The "IRS" sends you an email. The IRS doesn't send unsolicited email to taxpayers.

·         The IRS calls you and offers filing help over the phone... "if you will just get your social security number we can start now". The IRS would never call in a situation where you do not have ongoing communications with them.

·         You get a text message or note on your social networking site from the "IRS." They will never contact you this way.

·         You see an offer from an unfamiliar for-profit tax service selling refund and credit schemes.

·         You get internet offers for tax help directing you to call toll-free numbers... and they ask for your Social Security number.

·         There is an offer of free money from the "IRS" (or Social Security) with no documentation required.

·         You see a promise of refunds for "Low Income - No Documents Tax Returns."

·         You're offered a way to make a claim for the expired Economic Recovery Credit Program or for economic stimulus payments.

·         You get an offer for free tax preparation for a split of the refund.

·         You get offers for help on your taxes from firms outside your immediate area.

Like most scams, sometimes the caller says your bank account information is needed to send you a direct deposit for the expected tax refund. Instead of sending you a cash refund, they will drain your account.

Another version: An e-mail states you have a tax refund owed to you and they'll deposit it directly to your Visa or MasterCard. All you have to do is fill out an attached form. Don't do that either.