Slower refunds next year???

Scott Pinkowski, CPA

According to IRS officials, due to the rapidly increasing problem of identity theft, refunds this coming year will be slower due to additional work required to verify the return has not been fraudulently filed.  Identity thieves are using stolen social security numbers to file unauthorized returns early in the season and the victims are not aware their identity has been stolen until they file their return to find it rejected.

A few reminders about identity theft…

·         The IRS does not initiate contact requesting personal info via e-mail.

·         When unsure about who is contacting you, contact the IRS with a known phone number from their website and explain the situation.  This goes for other companies too. 

·         Use a reputable return preparer.

·         And, as always, be aware of what companies and what individuals you are allowing access to you personal information including bank account numbers and Social Security numbers.

·         For more information on identity theft and the IRS click here.