January 24 through April 18 is Federal Tax Filing Season and the IRS warns it could get a bit rough. The Better Business Bureau urges taxpayers to file as early as possible, especially if you’re expecting a refund. Early filing reduces the odds that a scammer will beat you to the punch, having stolen your identity and then stealing a refund.
Staffing shortages combined with pandemic related increased workloads, have added to the agency’s backlog. The result is a greater likelihood that your taxes will be processed at a slower pace this year. The BBB suggests that if you are notified of a duplicate return by the IRS, respond to them immediately — it could mean you have been ripped off by an identity thief. Inquire immediately if you receive notice from the IRS that you received wages from somewhere you did not work.
