Monde Donaldson
Vice President of Better Business Bureau Educational Foundation
https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/18436-top-tricks-used-to-scam-older-adults
No matter your age, no one is immune to scams. In the most recent 2020 BBB Scam Tracker Risk Report, romance scams continued to be the riskiest scams for ages 55 through 64, and travel/vacation/timeshare scams were again the riskiest for ages 65+. Regardless of the type of scam, BBB recommends the following precautions to avoid becoming a victim.
Tips to spot a potential scam
Watch out for phone fraud. The Federal Trade Commission reports that fraudulent telemarketers often direct their calls at older adults. Scammers will claim to be with a government agent or pose as an bank employee. They may sound friendly and courteous or aggressive and threatening. They may even have a caller ID to match their claims.
However, caller IDs can be easily spoofed and government agencies DON’T make unsolicited calls. It is vital to cultivate a healthy distrust for unsolicited callers and avoid sharing personal information. Never feel pressured to act. When in doubt, hang up the phone and call the official source to verify unexpected or unusual claims. You can also reduce the number of unsolicited calls by registering your phone number with the National Do-Not-Call registry at 1-888-382-1222 or Donotcall.gov.
Know the red flags. Most scammers use common tactics to get your money or personal information. Keep an eye out for the following too-good-to-be-true claims:
“Free,” “low cost,” or “buy one, get one” deal
Request for unusual payment types (i.e. prepaid debit cards or wired funds)
Claims that you only pay postage or administrative fees
Pressure to act now and/or aggressive tones
Deals that must be secured with a credit card or bank account information
Sure-fire investment opportunities
Charities that send 100% of your donation directly to the victims
Only hire trustworthy, licensed contractors.
Strange phone call? Might be an emergency scam:
Watch out for Medicare fraud:
Do your research before making an investment:Think before you click.
Be on guard for “sweetheart” swindles.
Reach out to someone you trust.
Take time to research your purchases.
Guard your personal information carefully. For More Information
https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/21492-bbb-tip-how-to-choose-a-tax-preparer-us
This year, United States taxpayers must file their income tax forms before the April 18, 2023 deadline. For many people, major life changes, business ownership, or simply a lack of knowledge about the ever-changing tax laws make finding a trustworthy tax preparer a good idea. That said, not all tax preparers have the same level of experience and training. Here are tips for finding someone you can trust with your finances and sensitive personal information.
Which type of tax preparer is right for you?
First, it’s important to understand the different types of tax preparers and their qualifications. Only enrolled agents, certified public accounts, and attorneys may represent their clients to the IRS on matters such as audits, collection issues, and appeals.
Enrolled Agent (EA):
Certified Public Accountants (CPA):
Attorneys:
Non-Credentialed tax preparers:
Most tax preparers are legitimate and competent, but keep in mind that without a national license requirement, they may be working off of their own personal research and experience. Because of this, it is important you conduct a thorough interview with the tax preparer before you hire them.
How to choose the right tax preparer:
When it comes to choosing the right kind of tax preparer for you personally, much will depend on the complexity of your tax situation. After you’ve decided what qualifications your tax preparer needs, the following tips will help you choose someone who is trustworthy and competent:
Review the tax preparer’s credentials.
Be wary of spectacular promises.
Get referrals from fr