Economic Stimulus Package Fraud on Seniors
Scam artists are using the new Economic Stimulus package as a means to dupe seniors.
I have spoken with several seniors in the past few weeks telling me they are receiving calls from folks indicating they are from AARP or the IRS. In this conversation they sound very official and convincing. They are telling seniors in order to get their rebate from the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 they don’t have to go to all the bother of filling out their tax return for 2007. All they need to do is give them their social security number and they’ll do all the work for them on their behalf. This is a scam. Neither AARP nor the IRS is making these phone calls.
There are 2 simple steps in getting your Stimulus Package Rebate:
1. File your 2007 federal tax return
2. Wait for your check to arrive in the mail.
Your rebate will be determined by the information you provide on your 2007 tax return. If you are contacted by anyone claiming that you have to provide any information other than what was on your return or that you have to pay a fee or that you have to do anything other than file your tax return, IT IS A SCAM!
For more information on the Economic Stimulus (tax rebate) payment, look for the mailing from the IRS that should be in your mailbox, or go to the IRS website, www.irs.gov, or contact me at 720.641.3482. The district attorney for the 18th Judicial District for the state of Colorado is also taking calls on their consumer protection hotline at 720.874.8547.
