5 Tips For Staying Safe During Tax Season

Set Up Your IRS Account Online

• Your account will give you the clearest picture of your standing with the IRS, including balances owed, records, and authorizations from your CPA.

• Watch out: irs.gov is the official website for the IRS. If it is anything else, it’s not legitimate.

Don’t Answer Calls or Texts

• The IRS will never ask you for sensitive information by phone or via threatening messages. If you receive a call like this, hang up and report it to the Federal Trade Commission.

• Watch out: Since criminals can now “spoof” IRS phone numbers, don’t let the fact that it appears to be a legitimate IRS number convince you to answer the call.

Beware of Ghosts

• The IRS will never ask you for sensitive information by phone or via threatening messages. If you receive a call like this, hang up and report it to the Federal Trade Commission.

• Watch out: Since criminals can now “spoof” IRS phone numbers, don’t let the fact that it appears to be a legitimate IRS number convince you to answer the call.

Verify Charitable Organizations

• Fraudsters posing as charities may ask you for identifying information and urge you to reduce your tax burden by donating.

• Watch out: A legitimate charity operating in the U.S. must have an Employer Identification Number. If you don’t get one, don’t donate.

Stay Vigilant

• Fraudsters escalate activity around tax time. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Talk with our team or your tax professional about any concerns you have.

Gentian Financial | 12740 N River Road Mequon, WI 53092 | PH 262-518-7575

Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional.