Tax Returns Filed for You Free, But You Lose Your Refund

In Albuquerque, Danielle Chavez went to file her federal income tax return. She had over $2,000 coming back to her and she was counting on this money.

To her surprise, her return was rejected. It seems that she'd already filed her return and received a tax refund anticipation loan through Jackson Hewitt. As it turns out, an identity thief went to the tax preparer with a W2 with Chavez's information on it. The thief received her refund and disappeared. Chavez is now jumping through many hoops to clear her name. She also has to re-file her taxes by mail. The IRS will verify that it is in fact the real Danielle Chavez this time and will give her another refund. This may take months, however.

Chavez has retained an attorney and wants the public to be aware of this tax scam. The failure to verify identification at the preparers office has caused her work and heartache.

While we don't know exactly how the identity thief had a W2 for Chavez, it is a prudent reminder to rescue your mail as quickly as possible if it is in an accessible mailbox. Use a post office box or service to protect your mail if necessary. And get a crosscut shredder. Never throw documents like this away without first destroying them. And when they are retained in your home or business, keep them secured.