Keep Your Eyes Out for Summer Tax Scams

August 01, 2016 by Charla Suaste
Charity Scam Sign

Over the course of the past several months, Americans have seen a number of devastating headlines splash in big letters across the covers of newspapers, magazines, and website homepages. Fortunately, one of the spotlights of hope during such dark times may be found in the hearts of our fellow citizens, who are eager to share their hard-earned money with the families of those who have been victimized by such devastating events. Unfortunately, there are also those individuals who, despite such difficult times, are looking for nothing more than to prey on people’s emotions.
 

One way that scam artists are able to accomplish that is by creating fake charities that appear to be helping victims of national tragedies. For example, shortly after the Orlando shooting took place this summer, these scammers jumped into action and began soliciting money from fellow Americans by way of email, social media, over the phone, and even via door-to-door home visits. Fortunately, the IRS followed up by issuing an alert to taxpayers, reminding them to be vigilant about making sure the money they are donating is going to legitimate charities.
 

Additionally, taxpayers are encouraged not to give out any personal information – such as Social Security numbers or credit card information – to anyone soliciting donations. Despite how well-meaning those individuals may seem, it is better to take down the charity’s information and do some online research to verify that the organization is a legitimate nonprofit whose money is going to the right place. One of the most foolproof ways to make that determination is to visit IRS.gov and use the Exempt Organizations Select Check – an online search tool that helps seek out vetted charitable organizations. If you are unable to find any information on the charity you are looking for, it is always better to steer clear and send your money elsewhere. No matter how generous you are feeling, it is always better to err on the side of stingy rather than end up on the wrong side of a tax scheme.
 

For more information about tax scams, please visit IRS.gov.

SEARCH

 

Charla Suaste
Communications Content Developer

 

Charla Suaste joined TaxAudit back in 2007 and, over the past 14 years, she has worked in a variety of different roles throughout the organization, including as a Customer Service Representative, Case Coordinator, and Administrative Services Assistant. She now serves as the Communications Content Developer and is passionate about writing, editing, and making even the most complex concepts easy to understand. Outside of work, Charla enjoys traveling, listening to podcasts, and spending time in her garden.


 

Recent Articles

Stack of books, graduation hat, and rolled up diploma
There are some tax-saving opportunities available for graduate school tuition, like the credits for undergraduate expenses. They each have some limitations.
Woman Reading Letter
The IRS sends out a CP14 notice to notify a taxpayer when they have unpaid taxes and/or penalties and interest. What should you do if you get a CP14?
Woman Shopping for Over the Counter Medications
When it comes to medications, you can only deduct the amounts that you pay for medicines or drugs that have been prescribed for you by a doctor.
April 2023 Calendar with Tax Day written on April 18th
In 2023 the tax returns are due April 18th for most taxpayers. However, if you live in California, Alabama, or Georgia your taxes may be due at a later date.
This blog does not provide legal, financial, accounting, or tax advice. The content on this blog is “as is” and carries no warranties. TaxAudit does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy, reliability, and completeness of the content of this blog. Content may become out of date as tax laws change. TaxAudit may, but has no obligation to monitor or respond to comments.