Watch Out For These Tax Time Scams Targeting New Yorkers

Tax time well underway in America and millions of people are in the process of filing their tax returns in hope of getting a big tax refund back from the Internal Revenue Service. This is happening all over country in communities just like the ones we have here in the Empire State.

It's not just Federal tax refunds people are hoping for, they're also on the hunt for getting a refund for any state taxes they my have overpaid in 2024.

Both the IRS and the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance are ready to send millions of money back to taxpayers and anytime there is money on the line, you have to make sure you beware of scams. Scammers are going to scam and look for ways to cheat you out of your hard earned money, so make sure you're aware of the different kind of tax scams that exist.

READ MORE: Tax Season Is Underway In New York State

Paying attention to these scams that exist will go along way to make sure you get and keep all the money you have earned and deserve.

• AI Tax Scams Are On The Rise: Scammers all over the world are now using AI to send emails and texts that look very authentic. These scams seem to your personal data to potentially dip into your bank accounts or access your IRS/State Tax Data. Remember, the IRS and the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance don't communicate via text.
• Only Use Trusted Tax Preparation Services: If you're not going to use IRS or NYS Direct File and you're going to have your taxes done by a person or service, make sure they're an authorized and trusted service. There are plenty of faux tax services that will steal your info. Be vigilant and make sure to vet them.
• The IRS and the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance Will Never:
  • Demand you pay them immediately over the phone using a gift card, debit card, wire transfer service, or other odd payment method,
  • Threaten to have you arrested right then or say the police are on the way unless you pay them over the phone,
  • Ask for debit or credit card numbers over the phone, or
  • Demand payment without giving you the opportunity or details on how to appeal or ask questions.

Remember scammers are going to scam, so make sure you take steps to protect yourself. If you think you are being scammed, the New York State Attorney General and the Federal Trade Commission want to know about it.