NASVHILLE, Tenn. (OSBORNE) -- Tax season is officially underway. The IRS began accepting returns this week and e-filing is now available.
Don’t expect the recent government shutdown to save you from Uncle Sam. Your tax return is still due on April 15.
If you need a little help with your return, but can’t afford a paid tax prep service, you do have options. Several mid-state groups are offering free help, including AARP Tennessee. Pam Holcomb is their spokesperson.
“We also serve pretty much anybody that comes in the door as long as their return is on topics that we have been trained on with the IRS. Our sites typically open on Feb. 1 and what IRS is telling us right now…they’re going to process refunds as usual.”
Several mid-state chapters of United Way and Goodwill are also providing free tax prep services.
The Tennessee Department of Insurance recommends you get that tax return filed as early as possible. The longer you wait, the greater the odds a scammer will file on your Social Security number.
The departments Kevin Walters lists some scammer red flags you should be on the lookout for.
“The IRS will never ask for your credit or your debit card numbers over the phone (or) in email. They’re never going to call or email you to verify your identity by asking for personal or financial information. They’re never going to call to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method such as a prepaid debit card or gift card.”
If you suspect you’ve been tax scammed, contact the IRS and the Tennessee Department of Insurance immediately.