Identity theft issues impact millions of taxpayers each year, resulting in considerable delays and taxpayer burden. In the 2023 Annual Report to Congress, National Taxpayer Advocate Erin M. Collins discussed how each year, the IRS flags millions of returns for potential fraud. In 2022, the IRS suspended processing of 4.8 million tax returns pending identity verification. That’s 4.8 million taxpayers who had to do extra steps before their tax return could be processed. However, there are a few things that taxpayers can do to help ensure that your identity can be authenticated as quickly as possible.
· Tax-related identity theft has been a problem since about 2004-05, and it “only got worse” since then, said Nina Olson, executive director and founder of the Center for Taxpayer Rights.
It went from being a one-off [thief] ripping off someone’s Social Security number to a whole scheme and organized crime,” Olson said.
`The Internal Revenue Service warned of an ongoing IRS-impersonation scam that appears to primarily target educational institutions, including students and staff who have ".edu" email addresses.
`The IRS warns taxpayers to avoid unethical tax return preparers, known as ghost preparers. A ghost preparer is someone who doesn't sign tax returns they prepare. Not signing a return is a red flag that the paid preparer may be looking to make a quick profit by promising a big refund or charging fees based on the size of the refund.
· If you are a current client and receive a letter from the IRS or your State, please contact the office so we can help you not spend numerous of wasted hours calling the IRS or State.
~ to freeze your credit go to https://www.usa.gov/credit-freeze .
~Click on the link in the above section to get information on the IP PIN, for extra protection for filing your taxes.
At Walrath Tax Service, LLC, our team of tax professionals has over 10 years of experience in the tax industry. We have helped thousands of clients with their tax needs and strive to provide the highest quality of service.
If you make a mistake on your tax return, we can help you to correct it and file an amended return if necessary. It's important to address any mistakes as soon as possible to avoid penalties or further issues.
Yes, we offer IRS audit assistance to help you navigate the audit process and ensure that your rights are protected. Our team will work with you every step of the way to help you achieve the best possible outcome.