IRS computer problems shut down tax return e-file system

Tax identity theft occurs when an identity thief uses a taxpayer’s stolen identity to file a fraudulent return and claim the victim’s tax refund.

Such calls have been prevalent in recent weeks, according to Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s office, which released a recording of one scammer’s call Wednesday.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman also issued a consumer alert following a recent uptick in local reports of telephone scammers posing as officials from the IRS.

Demand that you pay taxes without giving you the opportunity to question or appeal the amount they say you owe.

If you need help preparing your taxes, trained volunteers with the American Association of Retired Persons, AARP, will be on hand at dozens of locations across Alabama.

The IRS says some systems will remain out of service at least until Thursday.

Scammers impersonating IRS agents over the phone are once again topping the annual “Dirty Dozen” list of tax scams.

Napa Valley residents have been getting phony phone calls from people claiming to be employees of the Internal Revenue Service.

Ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone. While agency officials work to make sure all needed repairs are completed, individuals hoping to file during that period are encouraged to finalize their returns.

“A few months ago we received about 10 complaint calls, then they died down”.

“The caller may threaten you with arrest or court action to trick you into making a payment”, Koskinen said. The call should be reported to the Treasury at1-800-366-4484.

“It’s OK to give out information over the phone if you made the call to a number you know and trust, such as your own bank”.

In addition, it suggested that the IRS should provide a de minimis exemption to the information reporting rules for assets or groups of assets that are not publicly traded and are of de minimis value, for example, up to USD3,000.