AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Although most Americans file their taxes electronically and receive their refunds via direct deposit, about 9 million taxpayers still choose to receive a check in the mail. I am.
Although this number has decreased in recent years, it still presents an opportunity for the bad guys.
With the average refund amount exceeding $3,000, refund checks are a prime target for theft.
Opportunistic criminals have been known to follow mail carriers around neighborhoods, and when the truck is out of sight, open the mailbox, take what's inside, and drive off.
Once fraudsters have their hands on a check, they have been known to change the name on the check and look for a place where they can cash the check.
This isn't easy to do these days, but it happens to taxpayers who choose to receive their refunds by mail. Here's how to protect yourself if you still have a check in the mail from the IRS.
- Track your refund: You can check the status of your refund on the IRS website (IRS.gov/refunds) using your Social Security number, application status, and refund amount.
- Download the IRS2Go app. Stay up to date on your refund status with the official IRS app.
- Sign up for Informed Delivery: This free service from the USPS provides daily email notifications with grayscale images of anticipated mail. This allows you to quickly identify lost or suspicious items.
- Protect your address: The FBI recommends registering your address with USPS Informed Delivery to prevent criminals from registering your address and receiving updates delivered to your mailbox.
- Consider direct deposit: Some people prefer paper checks, but direct deposit into your bank account is the safest way to receive your money back and avoid the risk of theft. Remember, refund checks aren't the only thing criminals are after. Any email containing personal information is a target.
By taking these precautions, you can protect yourself from identity theft and safely receive your hard-earned refund.
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