The Internal Revenue Service announced several tax "scams" that it is pursuing.  The schemes are targeting the families of military personnel and those who are potential recipients of the Advance Child Credit under The Tax Act of 2003.  Two additional schemes are repeat offenders on the list.

• Miliary Personnel:  the families of military personnel serving overseas are being called by individuals claiming to be Internal Revenue Service Agents.  They advise the families that, due to their family member serving abroad, they may be eligible for increased or special refunds.  After collecting information from the family and promising to get the money to the family, the individual is never heard from again.  Unfortunately, personal information has been given to the stranger to use for his own purposes.  We think this is horrible.  Aligeb™ has a long tradition with the military. We actively support our men and women in service. We deplore this activity.  If you have received one of these calls, the Internal Revenue Service requests that you contact them immediately.  If you need assistance, we will gladly, at no charge to you, assist you in reporting this incident.
• Advance Child Credit:  this is similar to the above, however, the individual making the telephone call represents himself as an Internal Revenue Agent or an employee of a special company that can obtain the Advance Child Credit faster and a larger amount.  After gathering information, the individual then requests a credit card number because this "special service" requires that the taxpayer pay a fee.  The Internal Revenue Service wants you to know that the Advance Child Credit, if you are eligible, will come to you this summer and they, the IRS, will do all the work and do not need any additional information to process the credit.  Nor is there a fee for the credit!

We are all very careful with our personal information, but in a weak or stressful moment, the information can slip out without realization.  Sometimes, all it takes is a name!  Be on guard and if you do get caught in these traps contact the Internal Revenue Service.  If you fear identity theft, we can help you or put you in contact with the proper authorities to help you clear your name!

Repeat Offenders

• The Internal Revenue Service continues its investigation of abusive trusts.  If you are thinking of setting up a trust, contact a professional who knows trusts and taxation.  Our advice is to remember that if it seems too good to be true, then it is and you should avoid the trust plan.  Abusive trusts come in many forms; business trust, equipment or service trusts, family residence trust, charitable trusts, final trusts and foreign trusts.  If you have created a trust or are thinking of doing so, we recommend that you contact us and we will review the issues with you before it is too late!
• African American Reparations:  this type of reparation does not exist and to take part in it is not only costly, the organization that helps you apply for the reparations charges a fee, but it is a criminal act.  The Internal Revenue Service is actively pursuing anyone who applies for or takes a deduction for this form of reparation.