Identity thieves are busy during tax season
March 12, 2014 by Ed Richter, Journal-News, Hamilton, Ohio
March 12– Identity theft is a growing crime across the nation.
More than$20 billion was stolen from 13 million victims in 2012, according to a recent research report. In addition, theFederal Trade Commission said online scams doubled from just more than 20 percent of all frauds in 2007 to nearly 40 percent in 2011.
As tax time continues, identity thieves victimize people by obtaining personal information and filing for a federal tax refund.
Sandra Guile of theCincinnati Better Business Bureau shared a few tips to keep your identity safe during tax time:
* If a tax preparer is used, make sure your name and address are printed on your tax form and that only legitimate deductions are listed.
* All blanks on tax forms should be filled in before the taxpayer signs the forms
* Obtain and keep a copy of all tax forms for your records
* Have any refunds directly deposited into bank accounts
Check property insurance policies
Guile also suggests property owners review property and homeowners insurance policies.
Most damage caused by rain, hail, lightning and tornadoes are generally covered in standard homeowner’s, renter’s and business insurance policies, Guile said. Reviewing insurance coverage annually will help a property owner as housing market values and construction costs usually increase each year, she said.
While most types of damage are covered by standard homeowner’s, renter’s and business insurance policies, she said flood insurances is not included and needs to be purchased separately.
Guile said having a detailed inventory list of possessions and estimated values can save a significant amount of time in the event disaster does strike and a property owner has to file a claim. She said that a good inventory record can be invaluable when a property owner has to negotiate a settlement with the insurance company.
Have a consumer concern, complaint or issue? Contact Ed Richter at 513-755-5067 or Ed.Richter@coxinc.com.
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(c)2014 the Journal-News (Hamilton, Ohio)
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