Avoiding Scams in the Age of Corona

By Jessica Kolansky

Times are weird. Everything has changed. There is a new normal where living rooms have become offices and schools, and information is continuously evolving. While we all try to adjust to these changes and figure out how to make things work, the scammers out there have maintained their own status quo. Since those scammers have traditionally worked from basements and behind computer screens, this is nothing new for them. Though we wish they would use their powers for good instead of evil, they only want to benefit from you and to cheat you out of your hard-earned money.

You’ve probably heard a lot about the new CARES Act, which includes as part of the stimulus bill, a check for workers of up to $1200, depending on income.

Here’s what you need to do to get that stimulus money –

NOTHING!

If you filed your taxes in 2018 or 2019 online, that money will go directly into your bank account and you don’t even need to lift a finger. The money should start arriving in bank accounts around April 13^th. If you filed your taxes on paper and are waiting for a paper check, those stimulus checks will be coming out roughly around the first week of May. The government is starting with the lowest earners first, and they tell us that it could take up to 20 weeks to roll out all the funds.

The most important thing to know is that the IRS will NOT call you about anything, including your stimulus check. While this is always true, it is particularly important to keep this in mind when we think back to those scammers who are going to try to get to your money. Under the CARES Act, you do not have to pay anything up front, so if someone calls or emails you asking for any kind of payment to receive this stimulus money, do not give in. It is bogus! Additionally, no one has the power to move you up in line to get your money faster, so again, do not fall for those offers.

Do not ever, under any circumstances, give your bank account information to someone over the phone. Many of us are trying to be good people and look out for our fellow humans by staying home when we can to try to flatten the curve, and by not buying all the toilet paper, and social distancing. But there are still some bad folks out there and we at Willig, Williams & Davidson just want to make sure you’re protected from them.

If you have any questions or think you’ve been the victim of identity theft, please give us a call to discuss. We’re in this with you!

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