DENVER — Contact7 is holding a call center to answer your tax questions on Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The number to call is 303-777-7492.
One of the most common questions for the 2019 filing season is about smaller refunds. Many taxpayers expected larger refunds in wake of the 2017 tax overhaul, but the IRS says nationwide, early filers have seen an average decrease in their refund of 8 to 9 percent.
Tax experts are urging filers to learn about changes because of the new tax law.
"The biggest change from tax reform that will hit a ton of filers this year is they basically doubled the standard deduction that may make it more likely that people choose not to itemize taxes this year," said Mandi Woodruff, executive editor of MagnifyMoney.com.
Another change is that there is no longer a form 1040A or 1040EZ, just the 1040 form.
Taxpayers are also urged to be on the lookout for scams. The Better Business Bureau says 3,500 taxpayers were the victims of scammers last year. The IRS is warning of "ghost preparers" who promise you a big refund in exchange for a percentage. Be wary of any tax return preparer who asks for payment in cash, doesn't give you a receipt, or wants to divert your refund into their own account first. By law, anyone who is paid to prepare a tax return must have a valid 2019 Preparer Tax Identification Number, or PTIN.
Another common way taxpayers are scammed is through cyber hacks when they file online. Be sure to use a reputable online tax software like TurboTax or H&R Block.
Also be wary of anyone claiming to be from the IRS asking for your personal information or money. Remember, the IRS will never email you or contact you on social media, and will reach out to you by mail if there's a problem. Other red flags include anyone who asks you to pay them in an unusual way, like a prepaid debit card.
For more help with your tax questions, call the Contact7 Call Center at 303-777-7492 from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
