How to Avoid Identity Theft with your Income Tax Return
The IRS reports that cyber-crimes often occur with tax returns. Cyber thieves are crafty and their numbers are increasing. Here are seven ways you can avoid identity theft.
1. File as early as possible. Once a return has been filed and it is associated with a specific social security number, the IRS won’t accept another. Filing early will thwart a cyber-thief from using your name and social security number.
2. If you can’t file early, get an IRS PIN. Filing early isn’t always feasible. However, if you know you plan to file electronically, go to the IRS.gov website and get your electronic filing personal identification number (PIN). Without your PIN, a return cannot be filed under your name.
3. Shred sensitive information. As you finish completing your tax returns or going through your mail, shred any paperwork with your account numbers or your social security number or your date of birth. Dumpster diving and scrounging through trash cans are still an identity thief’s favorite hunting ground.
4. Keep your paperwork in a secure spot. Often, an identity thief is someone you know. Don’t leave your important documents in plain sight for people to view.
5. Take your tax return to the post office if you are mailing it. If you are not filing electronically, hand your returns directly to a postal worker or deposit into the mail at the post office. It is a really bad idea to leave your tax information in your household mailbox with the red flag up near the April tax deadline.
6. Avoid tax scams. The IRS does not call or email; they send letters in the mail to contact taxpayers. If you receive a phone call or email, do not give out personal information as it may be a scam artist phishing for your data. Never open email attachments or links that are unexpected or suspicious.
7. Monitor your online accounts. Beware of strange or unsolicited activities such as change of address notifications or password resets. These are signs that a fraud may be in the works. If your information gets compromised, Identity Theft is likely to occur.
Be vigilant with your personal information. Don’t share it. Password protect it and reset your passwords regularly. Continually be on the alert for fraudulent and suspicious activities.
