Dirty Dozen 2020: Economic Impact Payment Theft

          Identity Theft continues to be a problem. In previous years, a fraudulent tax return would be filed with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to steal a tax refund. This type of scam goes on every year. Now there is a new variation related to COVID-19 relief that has been provided.

          Criminals are doing their best to steal Economic Impact Payments (EIP) being sent to Taxpayers. Remember that there is no fee to receive these funds. Do not pay anyone to find out when you will receive your payment. Never sign over your check to someone. If your identity has been stolen, make sure to let the IRS know and make sure they have your correct address and bank information.

          The IRS has recently warned a number of care facilities and nursing homes that these EIP funds belong to the residents and not the business providing their care. These payments do not count as income and are not to be used for determining eligibility for any aid programs. The times we live in now require that we be proactive and take action if we feel it is necessary. The IRS has provided a checklist if you feel you are a victim of Identity Theft.


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