Tax season can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to filing taxes, running a small business in Union County, or just trying to keep your personal finances secure. Unfortunately, tax fraud is on the rise, and scammers are always looking for ways to steal your identity or file returns under your name.

The good news? You don’t have to be a victim. By taking simple steps like keeping track of your documents, watching out for suspicious emails, and staying alert to red flags you can protect yourself from fraud before it happens.

In this guide, we’ll break down five easy ways to shield yourself (and your business) from tax scams in Charlotte, Monroe, and Union County.

1. Keep Your Social Security Number (SSN) Private

Your Social Security Number is like the digital equivalent of your driver’s license: once out there, it can be used for identity theft, tax fraud, and even credit card fraud.

Where Scammers Might Find Your SSN:

Public records (some websites still list them — check!)

Social media profiles (especially if you post personal details)

Business directories (if you’re a local Charlotte or Monroe-based business owner)

Online forms (tax software, banking apps, job applications)

How to Protect It:

• Don’t share your SSN unless absolutely necessary. Only give it to trusted companies like the IRS, banks, or legitimate tax professionals.
• Check public records carefully. Some websites still list SSNs in directories, search for yours and remove them if possible.
• Use a P.O. box instead of your home address when needed (great for small businesses in Union County).

Pro Tip: If you’re a new immigrant or just starting out, consider using a business tax ID number (like an EIN) instead of your SSN for business transactions.

2. Monitor Your Credit & Bank Accounts Like a Pro

Fraudsters love to open credit cards, loans, or even utility accounts in your name. The best way to catch them early? Stay on top of your finances.

How to Spot Suspicious Activity:

New accounts opened (credit cards, loans, or even phone bills)

Unrecognized charges (even small ones can add up!)

Changes to your personal info (like a new address on credit reports)

What You Can Do:

• Check your credit report for free at Annual Credit Report. It’s legal and easy, just pick one bureau per week.
• Set up alerts with your bank or credit card company so you get notifications for big transactions.
• Review your statements monthly. If something looks off, report it immediately.

Local Tip: If you’re a small business owner, keep track of all financial activity, especially if you use payroll services like QuickBooks or ADP.

3. Use Strong Passwords & Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

A weak password is like leaving your front door unlocked, scammers will find a way in.

How to Make Your Accounts Unhackable:

Use long, complex passwords (12+ characters, mix of numbers, symbols)

Never reuse passwords (one hack = all accounts at risk!)

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on email, banking, and tax software

Consider a password manager like LastPass or 1Password to keep track

Example: Instead of “password123,” try something like “$kylr@UnionCountyTax2024!”

What About Tax Software?

If you use TurboTax, H&R Block, or FreeTaxUSA, make sure:

• Log in with a strong password.
• Enable 2FA if available (some platforms offer it).
• Never share your login details with anyone.

4. Watch Out for Phishing Scams

Phishing emails are fake messages pretending to be from the IRS, banks, or even local government agencies. They trick you into giving up sensitive info like: Your SSN Credit card numbers Bank account details

How to Spot a Phishing Scam:

Unexpected emails asking for personal info (especially from “IRS,” “PayPal,” or “Bank of America”)

Urgent threats (“Your account will be closed if you don’t respond!”)

Poor grammar & spelling (scammers often use basic templates)

Links that look suspicious (hover over them to see the real URL)

What to Do If You Get a Phishing Email:

Don’t click any links or download attachments.

Forward it to the real company (e.g., IRS phishing: IRS.Tax).

Report it to your bank, credit card company, or the FTC (reportfraud.ftc.gov).

Local Scam Alert: Some scammers target small business owners in Charlotte and Monroe with fake “tax refund” emails. If you get one, don’t respond, just delete it.

5. File Your Taxes Safely & Securely

Filing taxes is a big responsibility, especially if you’re self-employed or own a small business in Union County. Here’s how to do it without falling victim to fraud:

Do:

Keep all your documents organized (receipts, W-2s, 1099s) in a safe place.

Use secure tax software (TurboTax, H&R Block, or FreeTaxUSA).

Never share your filing credentials with anyone.

Don’t:

File early if you’re not ready, scammers can file under your name before you do.

Use public Wi-Fi for sensitive tax work (better to use a VPN or mobile hotspot).

Trust “too good to be true” refund offers (legitimate refunds take time).

If something feels off, trust your gut.

At the end of the day, staying vigilant is the best way to protect your money.

Need help? Whether you’re filing taxes for yourself, your business, or just want extra security, we’re here to guide you.

Your Financial Solutions

Insurance and Tax Services. We will help you to find the best insurance solutions for your family and business.