Tax Schemes on Cash-Strapped Consumers. The Latest BBB WARNING.
Posted on February 25th, 2009 by Gary
The Better Business Bureau is warning about schemes that target many cash-strapped Americans during this tax season. According to the BBB,
Jobless claims in January reached the highest level since 1982 in the U.S. as more than 2.6 million jobs were cut in 2008. With more families facing financial hardship, the promise of a tax refund is a welcome sight. Unfortunately, some schemes tied to the tax season will leave consumers even worse off in these tough economic times.
Here are three common schemes used by theives:
- Beware Tax Reduction Schemes -Some companies claim that they can help consumers reduce the amount of money they owe in taxes or fines to the government.
- Just say No to Refund Anticipation Loans -Refund Anticipation Loans (RALs) are cash advances offered by a tax preparer based on a taxpayer’s anticipated refund.
- Don’t Take the Bait on Phishing E-mails -Phishing e-mails around tax time
usually tell the recipient that there’s an issue with their refund, that they are being audited or that there is a problem preventing their taxes from being processed.
If you think something is too good to be true, it probably is. If you are not sure and you live in the South Carolina area, call the BBB at: 803-254-2525 | 843-766-9616
If you live outside of South Carolina go to the BBB website.
