The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is warning Americans about the possible emergence of coronavirus stimulus check scams.
This could mean an increase in emails and phone calls as well as text messaging and social media with fake numbers and accounts. These scammers may try to trick the recipients of stimulus checks.
“It is really kind of remarkable how scam artists are working minute by minute and just taking every new development and taking it to consumers to try and steal personal information,” said Melissa Ames, spokesperson for the Better Business Bureau of Youngstown.
She added that they began getting calls even before the CARES Act was signed.
Some phrases in scams that taxpayers may encounter are “act fast” or “if you don’t respond, you won’t get your payment.”
People are warned about signing their checks to scammers so the original recipients can get the most faster, but this is not likely to happen.
Scammers may also send a letter in the mail asking individuals to confirm information to get the payment. Personal questions may be asked, and the information can be used to steal one's identity.
Some scammers may pose as an IRS agent knocking on one's door just to steal personal information.
“What we are looking at is the demographics and how you’re being contacted. For example, some people are to be contacted by phone calls, email and fake text messages,” said Ames.
How to avoid IRS stimulus check scams
According to the IRS, they will mail "a letter about the economic impact payment to the taxpayer’s last known address within 15 days after the payment is paid."
This document contains information on how the payment was sent and how to report any concern, such as failure to receive the payment.
"If a taxpayer is unsure they’re receiving a legitimate letter, the IRS urges taxpayers to visit IRS.gov first to protect against scam artists," said the IRS on its website.
The IRS warns taxpayers to remain vigilant and look out for scam artists who would take advantage of the economic impact payments. Scammers can steal personal information and money.
"Remember, the IRS will not call, text you, email you or contact you on social media asking for personal or bank account information – even related to the economic impact payments. Also, watch out for emails with attachments or links claiming to have special information about economic impact payments or refunds."
In addition, taxpayers are encouraged to follow the instructions set by the IRS on how to get their stimulus check.
The payments will be sent either by direct deposit or by check. There is no need to take any action if one has already filed their tax returns this year for 2019 or if one already filed a 2018 federal tax return. Their information from 2018 tax filings will be used by the IRS to make the Economic Impact Payment calculations.
Meanwhile, individuals who have not provided IRS their bank account details will receive a paper check in the mail, and this may take longer.
For those who want to get their payments immediately, they can use the online application called “Get My Payment.” This allows taxpayers, who filed their tax return in 2018 or 2019 but did not provide their banking information on their return, to enter direct deposit information.
