Our firm takes data security seriously, and we think you should too.
Fraud
From now throughout tax season, fraudsters continue amp up their tactics to take advantage of innocent people.
Tax identity theft remains a significant concern.
Beware if you:
- Receive a notice or letter from the IRS regarding a tax return, tax bill or income that doesn’t apply to you
- Get an unsolicited email or another form of communication asking for your bank account number, personal information, or other financial details
- Receive a robocall insisting you must call back and settle your tax bill
Protect Your Information
Make sure you’re taking steps to keep your personal financial information safe.
- Use a secure password
- Maintain your computer’s security
- Be careful when downloading or using WIFI
- Log out of financial websites completely
- Don’t respond to emails requesting personal information
Do a Periodic “Identity Theft” Check
Reviewing your credit report may alert you to inaccuracies and unauthorized activity.
You can obtain a free credit report every 12 months from three different credit bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com. This is the only authorized online source for you to get a free credit report under federal law. Be aware that you will have to disclose your Social Security number to obtain this report.
Tax Planning Equals Fewer Surprises
There are many other opportunities to discuss as year-end approaches. And, many times, there may be strategies such as deferral or acceleration of income, prepayment or deferral of expenses, etc., that can help you save taxes and strengthen your financial position.
Whether it’s working toward retirement or getting answers to your tax and financial planning questions, we’re here for you.
View the 2021 tax organizer.
More Information
If you have questions, reach out to us at 314-961-1600 or contact us to discuss your situation.
To check out our other articles on business topics, click here.
David Smith
David Smith helps businesses and individuals develop smart business practices for tax and accounting advantages as the president of Smith Patrick CPAs. He is involved in the cannabis industry in Missouri through MoCannTrade and other organizations, helping cannabis operators with their tax and accounting needs.
About Smith Patrick CPAs
Smith Patrick CPAs is a boutique, St. Louis-based, CPA firm dedicated to providing personal guidance on taxes, investment advice and financial service to forward-thinking businesses and financially active individuals. For over 30 years, our firm has focused on providing excellent service to business owners and high-net worth families across the country. Investment Advisory Services are offered through Wealth Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor.
