I don’t think there are any scarier 3 letters in the english language. But for many people it is going to become even scarier! Why? Because the IRS will be turning over collections to private collection companies. So if you owe past due taxes or know someone who owes past due taxes you could be having some problems very soon. I found great article this morning at CNN.com I posted below. Please read it carefully because there could be alot of fraud problems too.
Secondly, if you have past taxes issues and need help getting solved, please call me office asap. I am friends of one the california best tax CPA’s who actually worked for the IRS for over 10+ years as collection officer and supervisor. I can introduce him to you he is local here in Redlands and only works by referral.
Until next time,
Carlos Samaniego
“The Debt Expert”
9009-307-0977
Fending off tax collectors
The IRS is outsourcing its debt collection work – what you need to know.
By Gerri Willis, CNN
February 26 2007: 11:31 AM EST
NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) — You have just a little over a month and a half to get those taxes in to Uncle Sam. If you do what you’re supposed to do, and pay your taxes on time, you won’t have any problems.
But if you don’t, watch your back. The IRS is now handing over private information to debt collectors on folks who owe less than $25,000.
The ground rules
You may be surprised to know that debt collectors actually have to follow rules. First off, they have hours. You can only be contacted between the hours of 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. and your cell phone and work phone are off-limits at all times.
If anyone from a collection agency calls you late at night or early in the morning you can report them.
Ignore immediate demands
Don’t listen to demands for money. Debt collection agencies can’t ask for or accept payment over the phone. And of course, be on the lookout for scam artists posing as collections agents.
Make sure to get the phone number and address of the inquiring agency, so you can double-check their authenticity.
Other things to keep in mind
Also, if your account has been handed over to a collection agency, you should expect to receive a written letter of notification directly from the IRS. And remember, the IRS doesn’t ask for PIN numbers, passwords, or any other information related to your financial accounts.
Fraud is rampant so if you suspect foul play, make sure to call the agency’s toll-free help line at 1-800-829-1040. Of course, the best way to avoid collections agencies is to do everything within your power to pay your bills, and the IRS, on time.
