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Last year, the ‘ghost’ tax preparer scam was the newest attempt to hoodwink taxpayers into paying con-artists instead of the IRS. When tax season approaches, most individuals are looking to bring home their tax return. Sometimes, we get overzealous and turn a blind eye to scams hoping that they’ll increase the size of our refund. To make sure you don’t fall victim to a tax scam this year, here are some easy tips: Keep yourself educated Knowing exactly how scammers are...

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Every business is susceptible to fraud, but small businesses are the most vulnerable. According to the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), private companies and small businesses rank highest in occupational fraud which can total a median loss of $164,000. Cybercriminals continue to develop sophisticated means to commit fraud. Spoof emails, malicious software spread through attachments and social media, fund transferring, and information breaches are just a few ways to gain access to...

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Romance scams are on the rise, affecting good people of all ages. Scammers actively seek out vulnerable people via Facebook and various dating apps, typically targeting individuals who have recently been separated, divorced or widowed, or just lonely, looking for companionship. They are good at what they do. They’ll take their time, establishing a “relationship” and gaining your trust. Eventually, they’ll introduce some sort of financial involvement. Here are some ways to...

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An individual retirement account (IRA) allows you to save money for retirement in a tax-friendly way. Most people don’t start thinking about retirement until they’re close to that age. It’s hard to imagine saving for retirement when you’re just trying to get by. Between student loan debt and the cost of living, most Millennials don’t have the luxury to plan for retirement. However, if you are not saving for retirement now, you are missing out on major opportunities to...

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The headline of the first article in the February IRS newsletter reads: Don't be victim to a 'ghost' tax return preparer. Wow! What next! The IRS is now warning taxpayers about unscrupulous tax preparers, known as ‘ghost’ tax return preparers. These individual preparers do not sign the return, instead they are instructing the taxpayer to sign themselves and mail to the IRS. These preparers are making some quick fees based on their aggressive write offs and generous refunds. By...

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When I was in fourth grade my mother asked me to clean the refrigerator. The fridge was white and instead of just cleaning it, I decided to spray it with a can of white paint! It did not work so well. I remember my father telling my mother, “Well honey, it’s a good thing we have 10 kids. At least one of them should be able to take care of us when we retire!” Relying on your children to take care of you during your retirement years may not be the easiest solution to achieving...

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