With Identity Theft on the rise, the IRS is taking precautions to protect taxpayers. One of the more common schemes that occurs at this time of year is when someone files a tax return requesting a refund, and the refund uses another taxpayer’s social security number. Some taxpayers have gotten letters from the IRS in regards to this matter where the IRS is requesting confirmation that the taxpayer did in fact file that return. With the involvement of their Identity Protection Specialized Unit, the IRS is expanding their robust screening process in order to stop fraudulent returns and protect taxpayers. With the added precautions, this may delay processing of tax returns.
Keep in mind that the IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers by email to request personal or financial information. This includes any type of electronic communication, such as text messages and social media channels. Should you receive such communication, do not respond to it and contact the IRS and/or your certified public accountant.
For additional information about the IRS actions to protect taxpayers against identity theft, visit the IRS website here.