THE Internal Revenue Service issued an alert about scams relating to Typhoon Haiyan (“Yolanda” in the Philippines). As you may have seen at CNN, Asian Journal, and other media, Haiyan is the strongest typhoon (“hurricane” in the US) in recorded history. It caused thousands of fatalities and rendered millions homeless from high winds and storm surge (like tsunami). It’s sad that scam artists take advantage of this tragedy by impersonating charities to get money from unsuspecting donors.
IRS cautions people to avoid scam artists by following these tips:
– Donate to recognized charities only. Verify legitimacy via Publication 526 at IRS.gov.
– Be wary of charities with names that are similar to nationally known organizations.
– Phony charities use names or websites that sound or look like those of respectable organizations.
– Bogus websites mimic legitimate sites or claim to be affiliated with genuine charities.
– Scammers send emails that steer you to bogus websites.
– Don’t open attachments or click on links in those emails. Peligro.
IRS also warns the public about phone scams that target recent immigrants:
– Scammers threaten those who refuse to pay with deportation, arrest, or loss of driver’s license.
– They claim to be agents from immigration services, police, or DMV.
– They want you to give your Social Security number, credit cards, bank account, or passwords. Don’t.
These callers sound convincing. They often:
– Know the last four digits of your Social Security number.
– Use common names and fake IRS badge numbers.
– Make caller ID appear as if the IRS is calling.
– Follow up with bogus IRS emails to support their scam.
– Convince you that you owe taxes and must pay with prepaid debit card or wire transfer.
It helps to understand how the IRS operates. Remember that the real IRS:
– Does not initiate contact by email.
– Does not send text messages or use social media channels.
– Does not ask for PINs, passwords, credit card, bank, or other financial accounts.
– Does not ask for payment using a prepaid debit card or wire transfer.
Despite all these, don’t allow scammers to prevent you from helping victims of typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. Our kababayans need your help.
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Victor Santos Sy, CPA, MBA, provides professional services in accounting and tax controversy including IRS audit defense and offers in compromise. He also advises clients on choices of entity including corporations for small businesses and LLCs for rentals. Vic worked with SyCip, Gorres, Velayo (SGV – Andersen Consulting) and Ernst & Young before establishing Sy Accountancy Corporation at 704 Mira Monte Place, Pasadena, CA 91101. The firm celebrates its 35th anniversary this year. You may email tax questions to Vic at [email protected]. You are welcome to visit our website for more than 300 tax tips at www.victorsycpa.com.