IRS Warns Last Minute Filers to Avoid Scams

Tomorrow is the dreaded day. Tax day. Normally falling on April 15, this year the deadline to file your taxes is April 17^th. All returns must be postmarked before midnight tomorrow night.

The IRS has issued a warning to consumers to help them avoid tax scams. The IRS states that the best way to avoid these scams is education. By visiting the IRS website at IRS.gov taxpayers can read up on information on currently known scams.

The IRS is warning taxpayers of a particular email scam which tells you that you have a refund waiting. This scam requests you enter your personal information to claim the refund. The IRS will not send you an email asking for your personal information. Taxpayers should beware of any email they receive from the IRS offering a refund or asking for your personal information.

Another common scam is fake e-file websites. These website appear to be on the up and up however they do not file your taxes for you, they simply store your information, which can be used to obtain credit cards, loans and many other illegal activities. To be sure that an e-file site is valid check the IRS website and follow the links located there.

According to a press release in 2005, the IRS has named the "Dirty Dozen" . The Dirty Dozen is the top twelve tax scams. You may see a completed list at the IRS website; a few of them are listed below:

Trust misuse, this is where someone tries to convince you to deposit your refund into a trust, which turns out to be fake.

Frivolous arguments, this is promoted by arguing that filing your taxes violates your 5^th and 16^th amendment rights.

Preparer Fraud, the IRS has begun a crackdown on fraudulent preparers. Keep in mind, when choosing a preparer; you are ultimately responsible for your returns. If there are fraudulent claims, you, not the preparer, will be liable.

Identity theft, we've all heard of this. Someone gets your information and uses it to obtain goods or services in your name. You may recall the CitiBank commercials using voiceovers for someone whose information had been stolen. Identity theft is a big problem and you should take measures to insure your personal information is protected.