Michigan Attacks Identity Theft With Online Verification Quiz
The Michigan Department of Treasury has increased security measures in an effort to protect Michigan taxpayers and the state from tax-related identity theft. If an income tax return is selected for identity confirmation, the taxpayer will receive a letter from the Department of Treasury asking them to confirm their identity by completing a short online quiz. After confirmation of passing the quiz, refunds will be issued in 14-21 days.
If you receive a letter, visit the Treasury’s Identity Confirmation website for instructions and a video tutorial. Additionally, if you suspect you may have been a target of identity theft, immediately contact the Department of Treasury at Treasury-ReportIDTheft@michigan.gov and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) at 1-800-829-0433.
Michigan Department of Treasury has also warned taxpayers of fraudulent phone calls being made to taxpayers from a “spoof” phone number, which has the appearance of being from the Department of Treasury. Taxpayers are told they have committed tax fraud and must pay immediately or they could be arrested. Neither the Treasury, nor the IRS, will ever demand immediate payment by phone without first making contact through the U.S. Postal Service, nor will either threaten arrest for not paying.
If you have any questions, contact Yeo & Yeo’s Michigan Accountants and tax professionals.