A new twist on an old taxpayer scam
Scammers have come up with a new way to steal personal and financial information from non-resident aliens and international taxpayers. Fraudsters send letters to people asking them to fill out fake alternate Forms W-8BEN, a form usually used by taxpayers who are not U.S. citizens. Taxpayers end up revealing passport numbers, PINs and other info that aid scammers in stealing their identities.
Keep in mind: The IRS doesn’t require taxpayers to recertify their foreign status. Also, the real Form W-8BEN does not ask for passport numbers and PINs. If you believe you received a phony IRS letter, email phishing@irs.gov with the subject line “IRS Impersonation Scam.”
Gilliland & Associates, PC is a full-service CPA firm specializing in tax planning for individuals and businesses in the Northern Virginia area. We are based in Falls Church, VA and also service clients in McLean and Tysons Corner, VA. Gilliland & Associates is known for our superior knowledge and aggressive interpretation and application of tax laws. We help you keep more of your earnings by finding you the lowest possible tax on your business or personal tax return. You can connect with us on Google+, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.
