For the Internal Revenue Service, this is the beginning of correspondence season. It is most likely sending out notices, bills and changes in reporting notices to taxpayers. When an Austin resident receives a letter from the IRS, he or she is likely to get overwhelmed by it and not question the validity of the notice. This is what scammers are counting on and taking advantage of.
In one letter of a disingenuous letter, taxpayers are being threatened by a lien or a levy based on delinquent taxes owed to bogus agencies. Additionally, one version claims a warrant has been issued and an individual will be arrested immediately if the payment is not paid.
In instances like this, it is helpful to be aware of IRS tax laws on correspondence. It will never call someone on the telephone to demand immediate payment of taxes or even made any phone call without first sending a bill through the post. Similarly, letters will arrive with the proper seal and in a government envelope. It will also include a letter number and a truncated tax ID number. Additionally, letters come with information about taxpayer’s rights and contain IRS contact information. The IRS will not threaten to arrest or deport someone in a letter. Lastly, a bona fide letter will include payment obligations and provide legitimate parties to whom the check should be made.
While understanding one’s tax obligations is complicated, it is not impossible with the help of knowledgeable professionals. Any notices or letters should be checked for authenticity and an experienced attorney can provide guidance on this and other tax related matters.