Tax Returns and Your Identity: How to Protect Them - Part 1


         These stories in the news have sadly become very common. Headlines about personal information that was thought to be secure, and how it has been stolen on a massive scale. These computer attacks have affected the lives of millions of people and every industry that conducts business on the Internet. This includes the government and the IRS.

          In May 2015, the IRS announced that sensitive information on an Internet application it provided had been compromised. The identities of up to 500,000 taxpayers may have been stolen. This is one part of a serious issue that continues to grow on an almost daily basis. The goal of this post and the one to follow, is to share what to do if we find ourselves in this situation. There are steps we can take if we feel that our identity has been stolen.

          The Criminal Investigation division of the IRS has a cybercrime unit. Part of the work they handle is related to fighting Identity Theft related to tax fraud. They will contact those who may have had false tax returns filed under their names. Please keep in mind that the IRS will never begin contact with taxpayers through a phone call or by e-mail. Surprise calls from someone impersonating an IRS employee demanding money are another example of tax related scams that are on the rise. Be cautious, and do not give your personal information to strangers. Our next post will discuss more ways to keep your identity safe.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

What is Fair in the Tax System?

                 Everyone wants to be treated fairly. That is an essential quality that all people have. But what is fairness? Trying to answer that question can prove to be difficult for some. While fairness is impartial and just treatment without favoritism or discrimination, applying this principle is a challenge. Each person has their own idea of what is fair. That is certainly true when it comes to the current tax system.           The Internal Revenue Service ( IRS ) is aware of that sentiment. After a year of review following the passing of the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act funding, they are determined to make a change. These changes will focus attention on the wealthy, partnerships, and other high-income earners who in recent years have had a sharp reduction in audits. The IRS is planning to use Artificial Intelligence to detect patterns in tax avoidance and new threats. They will also make sure that audit rates do not increase for modest earners. This is just one area that i
Read more

What is the Educator Expense Deduction for 2023?

            With the start of the new school year upon us, educators will want their students to have a complete classroom available to them. That might mean having some out-of-pocket expenses that are not reimbursed. If that’s the case, any principal, counselor, aide, or teacher who works at a K-12 school for at least 900 hours in a year can claim the Educator Expense Deduction . The current limit is $300, but that can be adjusted in the future based on inflation.           The qualifying costs can be related to books, supplies, and other materials used in the classroom. Equipment, including computer equipment and software can qualify. COVID-19 protective items used in the classroom would also apply. This can be claimed even if you use the standard deduction on your tax return. As a reminder, it is always best practice, especially when claiming a deduction, to keep good records which would include receipts. Your qualified tax professional can advise you further.
Read more

Internal Revenue Service to End Surprise In-Person Visits

               On July 24, 2023, the Internal Revenue Service ( IRS ) stated that it was ending the general practice of making unannounced in-person visits to taxpayers. The IRS is working on a new strategic plan in line with the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act last year. It is believed that this change will increase safety for revenue officers and taxpayers. There were tens of thousands of these types of visits each year. The goal was to help resolve delinquent tax matters.           In place of the visits, the IRS will send appointment letters and schedule meetings to deal with the tax problems. There will still be certain situations when unannounced visits will take place. This will be related to serving a summons or subpoenas and enforcement activity like seizure of property. If you want help in resolving a pressing tax issue, visit our website at help4yourtaxproblems.com .
Read more