CPA urges caution when vetting tax advice from social media

People who hear tax advice from friends or on social media should verify the claims before acting, a certified public accountant said. The CPA warned that following unvetted tips can lead to incorrect filings or scams.

The accountant advised checking the source’s credentials and looking for citations to law or official guidance. The CPA said taxpayers should verify claims against Internal Revenue Service guidance or other government resources.

The CPA recommended consulting a licensed tax professional before making major tax decisions. The accountant also urged taxpayers to keep written records and not to provide personal or financial information in response to unsolicited posts.

The CPA said red flags include promises of guaranteed refunds, claims of secret loopholes and requests for payment in unusual forms. Taxpayers who are unsure should contact the IRS or a qualified tax professional, the accountant said.

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