KTRV Fox 12 Beware Tax Preparation Scams

Beware Tax Preparation Scams

Boise, Idaho -- We're in the middle of tax season and scammers are already hard at work to get your refund.

Many of us already have big plans for that check from Uncle Sam.

"I'm going to go to Mexico. We have a bachelorette party there and there is about 12 girls, and so that's what I'm going to spend my tax money on," said Leah Laskarris.

"I'm probably going to put most of it towards good use -- (pay on) credit cards. And then I think I'm going to play with a little of it," said Sarah Biderman.

"I was looking forward to playing with my tax refund, but it turns out that I'm spending it on tires and maintaining my vehicle. So that's what I'm doing with it.  It's not very fun, but it's necessary," said Tyler Fortunati.

Those are all great ways to use the money. But here's the thing, there are plenty of people out there who have their own plans for your money. And they have a variety of ways to get it from you. First and foremost, you need to take a good look at the places that promise they can get you the biggest refund possible.

"What the BBB recommends consumers do is to look for businesses they can trust. Do research and find out if they are open 12 months a year. Are they accessible to them if they have questions at any time during the year," said Better Business Bureau Outreach Coordinator Beve Bryant.

If you plan to go to someone to prepare your taxes for you, here's what you need to know to avoid getting scammed.

Identity theft is perhaps the biggest worry you have because tax forms have your Social Security number on them. Thieves will look to get their hands on that info. And if they do, they can get into your finances. Not only redirecting your refund to them, but they can also open up financial accounts in your name.

Pick your tax preparation service provider carefully. Besides asking people what they want to spend their refund on, we also asked if they are tempted to go to businesses promising to get them that big TV or new car if you just let them do your taxes for you.

Not one person told us they were. As we mentioned scammers have a number of ways they can get your hard-earned dollars.

Remember the basic rule --if it sounds to good to be true, it probably is.

if you have any questions about a tax preparer, check them out online for free at www.bbb.org.