Economic stimulus payment scam alert
Langga Gay

Many scam artists are scheming new ways to get your economic stimulus payment from you by any means neces- sary. Be on the look out for these schemes or anyt hing that seems u n - usual.

You don't have to pay a fee to get your stimulus payment or to receive your payment faster. There are individuals who claim they can speed up your payment - for a fee. Some will even ask you to sign away your benefit to them. This is a scam. No one can speed up your payment.

If someone claiming to be from the IRS calls or emails you about the payments and asks you for a Social Security, bank account or credit card number, it is a scam. The scammers are trying to get your personal and financial information so they can empty your bank account, run up charges on your credit card or steal your identity.

Do not give out personal information if you are contacted by phone or e-mail.

Please keep in mind that only the IRS can send you an official letter regarding your tax situation. The IRS will never do any of the following: call you and ask for Social Security Number or bank account information; e-mail you and ask for Social Security Number or bank account information; send a letter that tells you to respond by phone; send a letter that tells you to respond via e-mail; or come to your home

To report IRS scams, contact the IRS at 1-800-829- 1040. If you receive an unsolicited e-mail communication claiming to be from the IRS, please forward this message to: phishing@irs.gov using the instructions provided below.

The Georgia Department of Human Resources Division of Aging Services (DAS) is offering presentations in your area, call Elder Rights Project Director at 478-982-3421.

Disclaimer: This column provides general information only. This is not legal advice and cannot replace legal advice. You can get legal advice from a lawyer or you can call your local Georgia Legal Services office at 1-800-220- 8399, or 912-651-2180. Langga Gay is Project Director, Senior Paralegal (Non-Attorney)