It’s tax season, and this week I announced tips to help Floridians protect their identities. I encourage Floridians to educate themselves on identity theft and tax-related scams before filing their tax returns.
Here are some tips you can take to avoid identity theft and tax fraud:
Also this week, we urged Target customers to take advantage of one year of free credit monitoring being offered by the retailer in the wake of the massive data breach.For information about how to sign up for the free service click here.
In closing, on Monday we will celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s unyielding passion for unity and equality. His leadership paved the way for all people to live free of oppression and discrimination. As we reflect on Dr. King’s accomplishments, I hope that we are inspired by his tremendous contributions.
Here are some tips you can take to avoid identity theft and tax fraud:
- File tax returns early. The IRS will reject a return if one is already filed with that social security number;
- Ask for credentials of the tax preparer, and ask if he or she belongs to a state board or bar association that requires continuing education;
- Do not provide your social security number unless it is required;
- Do not carry your social security card or write it on checks;
- Shred financial documents and papers before discarding them;
- Be wary of providing sensitive information via the Internet;
- Do not respond to e-mails asking for information relating to tax refunds. The IRS’ website is the legitimate source for checking on refund status; and
- Check credit report every 12 months.
Also this week, we urged Target customers to take advantage of one year of free credit monitoring being offered by the retailer in the wake of the massive data breach.For information about how to sign up for the free service click here.
In closing, on Monday we will celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s unyielding passion for unity and equality. His leadership paved the way for all people to live free of oppression and discrimination. As we reflect on Dr. King’s accomplishments, I hope that we are inspired by his tremendous contributions.