Tax Fraud-How to Protect Yourself
Resources on How to Protect Yourself
The IRS notes: "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!" Don't become a victim to any scheme that offers instant wealth or exemption from your obligation as a United States citizen to file tax returns and/or pay taxes. Some of these schemes can literally cost you your life savings. Others can result in your prosecution and imprisonment if you knowingly participate in them.
Resources on How to Protect Yourself
Owe Back Taxes? Tax Relief Companies Can Result in More Pain than Gain
Federal Trade Commission, September 2010
If you owe back taxes and don't know how you're going to pay the debt, the FTC, the nation's consumer protection agency, says don't panic, take a deep breath, and consider your options.
Tax Scams - How to Recognize and Avoid Them
To help the public recognize and avoid abusive tax schemes, the IRS offers an abundance of educational materials. Participating in an illegal scheme to avoid paying taxes can result in imprisonment and fines, as well as the repayment of taxes owed with penalties and interest. Education is the best way to avoid the pitfalls of these “too good to be true” tax scams.
The Dirty Dozen Tax Scams
Learn about the IRS's top 12 tax scams in 2012 and protect yourself and your family from tax fraud.