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Avoid Identity Theft During Tax Season

By Andrew Zumwalt
 
Identity thieves thrive during tax filing season.
 
Take steps to prevent those electronic criminals from lining their pockets with your refund and personal information, says University of Missouri Extension personal finance specialist Andrew Zumwalt.
 
First, file taxes promptly. Identity thieves try to file early so your refund goes to them before you file.
 
Second, use the services of trusted tax professionals. If you choose to prepare your own taxes and use a public computer, log out of any programs and clear the browser history before leaving the computer.
 
Third, remember that the Internal Revenue Service never makes initial contact with taxpayers by telephone. Impersonators demand credit card payment over the phone and threaten you with legal action if you don’t pay immediately.
 
Fourth, guard your identity. Don’t carry your Social Security card with you and don’t give your Social Security number to others. Safeguard your personal information in your home. Install trusted virus protection on your computers.
 
Finally, check your credit report every year to make sure your identity has not been breached. A free credit report from each major credit bureau is available annually at www.AnnualCreditReport.com(opens in new window).
 
If you think your identity has been stolen, go to www.identitytheft.gov(opens in new window) to contact the Federal Trade Commission and learn how to set up a fraud alert. Also, fill out a Form 14039(opens in new window) Identity Theft Affidavit at www.irs.gov(opens in new window).
 
Zumwalt cautions people to use the genuine IRS website at .gov. Don’t be confused by Internet domain names that end in .com, .net, .org or other designations.
 

Trending Video

Demco Dual Aguer Grain Carts — Fire Safety Systems, Right or Left-Handed Unload, and More!

Video: Demco Dual Aguer Grain Carts — Fire Safety Systems, Right or Left-Handed Unload, and More!


Demco's dual auger grain cart is designed for unloading efficiency, operator visibility, and safety in the field.

This dual-auger design features both an unload auger and a floor auger for enhanced grain cleanout and consistent flow, and the 22-inch unload auger is capable of moving up to 600 bushels per minute.

Farmers can also choose between right or left-handed unload options—right-handed unload improves visibility from the tractor cab. A new design allows both vertical and horizontal movement for precise grain placement during unloading.

Another key feature is the built-in fire safety system; a 300-gallon onboard water tank with a hose reel that provides field-ready fire suppression capability.

These dual auger grain carts are available in 1100, 1300, 1500, 1700, and 2200 bushel sizes.