Q. Tax filing time has arrived. I want to file early because of the false identity theft filings last year. What advice does BBB offer for filing tax returns and avoiding identity theft?
A. The BBB Scam Tracker website has reported nearly 15,000 schemes, with tax collection and IRS scams being the most common. Most victims of tax identity theft are unaware their identity has been stolen until they go to file their return and discover that a return has been filed under their Social Security number. The following are signs you may be victim of tax theft:
1. You owe additional tax
2. Collection actions taken against you for a year you did not file tax return.
3. IRS indicates you received wages or other income from an employer where you did not work.