Tax season is here, and Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill wants to ensure that consumers do not fall victim to tax scams.
“We want make sure that when you file your taxes, you do so safely and correctly,” said General Murrill.
This year, federal Tax Day falls on Monday, April 15th. Here are some common scams to be aware of from the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division:
Scammers posing as the IRS: A common tactic used by scammers is to pose as the Internal Revenue Service to request personal or financial information from the consumer. The IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text messages, or social media.
Scammers posing as legitimate tax preparers: This scam involves a person or company claiming to be a professional tax filer. The scammer requests a large fee, but never delivers the services as promised. To avoid this scam, consider using a well-known tax preparer company or a tax preparer recommended by someone you trust. Additionally, the IRS has a Federal Tax Return Preparer directory for you to search for a legitimate tax preparer in your area. Certain taxpayers can also file their taxes for free using IRS Direct File. Visit their website for more information.
Tax Debt Relief Scams: Scammers will contact taxpayers and claim they can help them settle their tax debt for cheap. Taxpayers end up paying a large upfront fee to the company for its promise to negotiate a reduction of their debt with the IRS. Most of the time, these companies pocket the fee and do not follow through with their promise.
Report suspected tax schemes to the IRS by e-mailing phishing@irs.gov or by calling 1-800-908-4490.
Louisiana taxpayers may also submit a consumer dispute form with
our office at www.aglizmurrill.com.
Louisiana state income taxes are due on May 15th.