Comptroller Announces More Than 2 Million Returns Processed
Franchot warns fake collection agency is using public lien information to target taxpayers
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (April 28, 2021) - Comptroller Peter Franchot today announced the agency has processed more than two millions state tax returns in the current tax season with 1.4 million taxpayers receiving refunds totaling $1.4 billion. He also released details of another tax scam in which a fake collections agency attempts to steal Marylanders' money.
Scammers have taken advantage of public lien information to target taxpayers. Taxpayers have received letters – correctly addressed to them – with public record lien information from an entity claiming they are a collections agency operating on behalf of the Comptroller of Maryland. The letter is not legitimate. If any individual or business taxpayer, in Maryland or out of state, receives such a letter, please contact our office immediately.
"Unfortunately, nefarious criminals are always searching for new and devious ways to defraud innocent taxpayers, and the pandemic has only accelerated their efforts," Comptroller Franchot said. "My advice to taxpayers is remain vigilant and always confirm the legitimacy of letters or emails requesting certain information or seeking payment. In short, better safe than sorry."
The Comptroller's staff aggressively works to combat fraud, employing a state-of-the-art fraud detection system that roots out tax cheats and notifying the public as soon as the schemes are reported to warn potential future victims.
As always, taxpayers should review the list of blocked tax preparers before turning over any personal information to a preparer. For additional information about preventing tax fraud or any other topic regarding tax processing, call 1-800-MD-TAXES or email taxhelp@marylandtaxes.gov for help.
MEDIA CONTACTS: Susan O'Brien - sobrien@marylandtaxes.gov
Alan Brody - abrody@marylandtaxes.gov
Communications Office Phone: 410-260-7300
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