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THURSDAY TAX TIDBITS

How to: Notice red flags and avoid scams!

Summertime tends to be a period when thieves increase their scam attempts. They try to obtain peoples’ Social Security numbers, account information and passwords. To avoid these scams, remember these signs!

The IRS and authorized private collection agencies will never:
  • Call to demand immediate payment using a specific method such as a prepaid debit card, gift card or wire transfer. Normally, the IRS mails a bill and the payments are made payable to the U.S Treasury. Never make checks to other parties
  • Threaten to immediately bring in the local police or other law-enforcement groups to have the taxpayer arrested for not paying
  • Demand that taxes be paid without giving the taxpayer the opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed
  • Ask for credit/debit card numbers over the phone
  • Use email, text messages, or social media to discuss personal tax issues, such as those involving bills or refunds


If you believe you may owe taxes, then you can:
View tax information online at IRS.gov to see the exact amount
Call the number on the billing notice
Call the ORS at 800-829-1040. IRS workers can help

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