Avoiding Tax Scams
MARYLAND – Tax season is in full swing, and it’s a prime time for scams.
Officials we spoke with Tuesday say it’s important to remain vigilant during this time.
“I think that anybody who just feels like it’s an overwhelming process to try to have to figure out for yourself, that certainly does open you up to some uncertainty and possibly falling for a scam,” said Julie Peters with SHORE UP! Inc.
Peters said there are a few red flags to look for when approached by scammers.
“There are some tax preparers who may do a tax return, but not sign it, that’s a big red flag,” said Peters. “Additionally, tax preparers should not be offering to give you your refund on the spot either by cash or check you should only be receiving your refund from the state and federal government.”
Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman said others may pose as members of the Comptroller’s Office or the IRS.
“First beware of debt collection scams where thieves pose as an employee from the Office of the Comptroller, the IRS or a collections agency acting on their behalf,” said Lierman. “Folks may contact you by telephone or email and demand immediate payment of a tax debt.”
Comptroller Lierman said it’s important to make sure your tax preparer has the proper credentials.
“There are various types of tax return preparers, including certified public accountants, enrolled agents, attorneys and many other who don’t have a professional credential and we want to make sure that tax payers talk to and vet their tax return preparer prior to hiring them,” she said.
When it comes to filing your taxes, one key way to protect yourself is to file online.
“Online filing helps reduce the risk of tax refund fraud to make sure that you can get your refund in a safe way,” said Lierman. “You can use systems like Direct File which is the new system that allows you to file online both your federal and state tax returns.”
Officials with SHORE UP! want to remind you that they do provide free tax preparation for anyone with an income of $67,000 or less.
If you think you are the victim of a tax scam, you can report it to the Office of the Comptroller by calling 1-800-MD Taxes or by emailing taxhelp@marylandtaxes.gov.
