(NEXSTAR) — Tax time can be painful enough for many of us, but the Internal Revenue Service warned Thursday of some common scams that can make it even worse.
Anyone who’s answered calls from unknown numbers knows that scammers work year-round, but during tax time there’s an additional threat to your hard-earned cash – IRS impersonators.
Along with the usual text, email and phone scams, the IRS says people should be especially wary of possible unemployment fraud this year.
“With filing season underway, this is a prime period for identity thieves to hit people with realistic-looking emails and texts about their tax returns and refunds,” said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. “Watching out for these common scams can keep people from becoming victims of identity theft and protect their sensitive personal information that can be used to file tax returns and steal refunds.”
Unemployment scams
The IRS says there has been a “surge” in organized crime rings using stolen identities to steal unemployment benefits.
If criminals use your identity to file for benefits, the taxable money will trigger a state-issued Form 1099-G. If you receive that form and aren’t sure why, you should report it to the issuing agency and request a corrected form.
If you find a benefits-related notice from your employer or…
