Tax Season Tips to reduce your chances of Identity theft

Tips to reduce chances of tax identity theft:

? File early to get your refund before identity thieves have the opportunity.

? When you do file, use a secure internet connection if filing electronically. If mailing your

return, take it to the post office to prevent your return – and your personal information –

from being stolen from your mailbox.

? Know that the IRS won’t ask you to pay your taxes with a prepaid debit card or wire transfer,

nor will they ask for a credit card number over the phone. In fact, if the IRS needs to contact

you, they will do so by mail.

? If you aren’t preparing your return yourself, ask for recommendations and research tax

preparers before you turn your personal information over to them.

? Shred old taxes returns you’re no longer required to keep, as well as draft returns, extra

copies and calculation sheets.

? Always protect your Social Security number or Medicare card number; don’t give it out

unless you must. Always ask why it’s needed, how it’s going to be used and how it will be

stored.