STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- As millions of New Yorkers begin to file their taxes, the state’s top finance officials are doing their best to ensure that residents are not victims of fraudulent activity.
On Thursday, the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance released a list of tips intended to help New Yorkers avoid identity theft and fraud this tax season.
“Tax Season unfortunately is also scam season. Con artists are continually trying new ways of robbing people of their personal information as well as their peace of mind. It’s critical you take proper precautions to safeguard confidential data now and throughout the year,” said New York State Commissioner of Taxation and Finance Michael Schmidt.
Here are some key tips.
FILE PROMPTLY
New Yorkers are encouraged to file their taxes promptly, as the longer you wait, the more time identity thieves have to file a fraudulent tax return with your stolen personal information.
Taxpayers are encouraged to file their claims online using the Free File software available on the Tax Department website to ensure a quick, secure experience.
State residents who earned $72,000 or less in 2020 are eligible to electronically file their taxes at no cost using the Free File software, and are eligible to receive free virtual assistance from a Tax Department expert who will walk them through the process.
USE DIRECT DEPOSIT
New Yorkers are also encouraged to select direct deposit for their tax refund, with state officials claiming that those who file online and select direct deposit could receive their refund up to two weeks earlier.
PROTECT DATA
In order to prevent identity theft and fraud, residents should make sure to protect all sensitive data and documents used when filing their return and immediately delete or shred that information once they’ve filed.
KNOW YOUR PREPARER
When hiring someone else to prepare their taxes, New Yorkers should thoroughly research the individual or organization to ensure they’re on the up-and-up.
“Avoid tax preparers who boast that they can obtain larger refunds than their competitors can, who don’t provide you with their IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN), or who base their fee on a percentage of your refund,” according to the Department of Taxation and Finance.
Residents should make sure that anyone hired to prepare their taxes is willing to sign the return indicating themselves as the resident’s tax professional.
REVIEW RETURNS CAREFULLY
New Yorkers should also carefully review their tax returns before submission, even if they hired a professional, as the burden of the return’s accuracy ultimately falls on the individual.
“Scammers have been hard at work throughout the pandemic and are now kicking it into high gear with the start of tax season. I encourage all New Yorkers to follow basic tips to help keep their sensitive tax information from falling into the wrong hands,” said New York State Secretary of State Rossana Rosado.
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