March 6, 2015
***National Consumer Protection Week Consumer Alert***
Carson City, NV – Nevada Attorney General Adam Paul Laxalt warns all taxpayers, including those with a tax obligation and those expecting a refund, to be cautious of others looking to profit from their situations.
“During tax season, many taxpayers are susceptible to tax preparer scams,” said Laxalt. “This office is committed to investigating these scams, and hopes that Nevadans will take the necessary precautions to avoid becoming victims.”
Taxpayers looking to receive an instant tax refund may seek the help of tax preparers. However, while some tax preparers can provide their clients with a refund within one or two days, there may be hidden costs associated with their service. These tax preparers oftentimes charge taxpayers a one-time fee that is then taken from the amount of the refund. In some cases, the fees or interest could total as much as, or more than, the tax refund amount itself.
Taxpayers can expedite any expected tax refund by using the Internal Revenue Service’s (IRS) e-file program with direct deposit. The IRS generally issues tax refunds within 21 days of the filing. Taxpayers using a tax preparer should never sign a tax return form that is blank or incomplete. Taxpayers should also require their tax preparer to sign the tax return and provide them with a copy.
For more information on the IRS and helpful tips on taxes and tax scams, visit their website here. For additional assistance, visit the FTC website here. The FTC also provides tips for avoiding and detecting tax-related scams, as well as complaint assistance for taxpayers who suspect they have fallen victim to a scam. Nevada taxpayers may also file complaints regarding scams with the Nevada Attorney General’s office here.
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