Beware of scams involving your stimulus check

Congressman Fred Upton wants folks to be aware that there exists a potential for scams and fraud with the upcoming stimulus payments (rebates).  There have been reports of individuals posing as IRS agents asking for personal and financial information.  By following a few simple steps, you can obtain your stimulus payment and protect yourself from fraud.

1. THE ONLY WAY YOU CAN RECEIVE A REBATE IS BY FILING A TAX RETURN.  If you are not required to file a tax return – which is the case for many low income individuals and Social Security recipients – you MUST file one for the 2007 tax year to get your payment. Form 1040A is the simplest form to claim your rebate.
   
   
2. There are only two manners in which the IRS will disburse the rebate: via direct deposit or check in the mail.
   
   
3. YOU will determine how you want to receive your check from the IRS by filling out the 1040A or other applicable tax form.
   
   
4. NO ONE from the IRS will be calling you or e-mailing you for information.  The only way to receive your money is by filing the 1040A or other applicable tax form.
   
   
5. BEWARE of scams via the phone or Internet.
   
   
6. DO NOT give out any personal or financial information over the phone or e-mail if someone inquires about your IRS check.
   
   
7. REMEMBER, the IRS will only disburse checks to those folks who have filled out the 1040A or other applicable tax form.

By following these simple steps and exercising some caution, you can protect yourself from fraud.

You may report suspected fraud to the Michigan Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division at 1-877-765-8388 (toll free).

Additional information regarding your stimulus check may be obtained through the IRS website at http://www.irs.gov, by contacting the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program at 1-800-906-9887 or by visiting my website at http://www.house.gov/upton.  The American Association of Retired Persons has also established a toll-free hotline at 1-888-227-7669.