As members and employees of Telco Credit Union, we know that things have changed drastically due to the COVID-19 pandemic. There are many stresses we’re all dealing with, including the health and safety of you and your loved ones. The last thing you might want to stress about is your finances. However, there are scammers out there offering tax relief scams. With so many people vulnerable, be especially smart about avoiding scams. Serving Tarboro, Rocky Mount, and Greenville, North Carolina and surrounding areas, Telco is here to help. We want you to feel secure with us as your credit union.
A few days ago, people in the US started receiving relief checks from the IRS because of the pandemic. If you have received tax refunds via direct deposit prior to the pandemic, you should have already received your tax relief money. If not, you’ll receive a paper check in the mail. This may take longer than direct deposit, of course, but remain patient.
The IRS will not contact you asking for any of your personal information in regard to the tax relief money coming from the government. Because of filing taxes in the past, the IRS has all the information they need. If you receive a phone call or an email and someone asks you to reveal personal information so that you may receive relief funds, this is a scam! Even if a letter in the mail appears to have come from the IRS, know that this is a scam.
If you receive requests to contribute to fundraisers for the Coronavirus, make sure to check that the fundraiser is real. Visit their website and check to ensure the fundraiser is planned and run by a credible establishment. This could very likely be a scam.
If you receive any information (phone calls, emails, letters, etc.) about a possible cure or vaccine for COVID-19, this may also be a scam. No official representative will call and ask for your money, so do not give personal information to someone that has not been verified.
Finally, be careful when you provide any personal information online. This is heightened because of the pandemic, but you should also consider what kind of personal information you are providing online, as that information can easily be shared with people who do not have your best interest at heart.
We hope everyone is staying healthy and safe. Telco Credit Union works hard to help you feel financially secure, especially at times like these. If you live in Eastern North Carolina and would like to become a member, or you are already a member and need assistance with your finances, give us a call today!