IRS Data Retrieval
The IRS is reporting there are a variety of telephone or email scams con artists are using to obtain personal information from tax payers. Anyone receiving an email or telephone call reportedly from the IRS and demanding information or threatening other action should report the action to the IRS. Going to the IRS website will provide information on a variety of tax scams and consumer alerts.
The use of the IRS Data Retrieval Tool through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid remains the best way in which to report income for financial aid purposes. However, if the Data Retrieval Tool is not available, a tax return transcript may be requested by mail through the IRS website. It may take 5 to 10 days for delivery. The online instant print option has been shut down temporarily.
According to the IRS website, the IRS will never:
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call to demand immediate payment, nor will the agency call about taxes owed without first having mailed you a bill
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demand that you pay taxes without giving you the opportunity to question or appeal the amount they say you owe
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require you to use a specific payment method for your taxes, such as a prepaid debit card
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ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone
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threaten to bring in local police or other law-enforcement groups to have you arrested for not paying.
