Last Friday was not only the beginning of a long weekend, but it was also the date the IRS would start accepting tax returns. Being able to accept does not mean one should necessarily rush to get their returns filed. Documents are still being mailed out and most likely will be for the next few weeks. Additionally, due to the numerous pieces of legislation passed in 2020, this tax season looks to be more complex and could lead to it taking more time for returns to be completed. We have received questions about the tax deadline being extended as it was in 2020. As of now, the deadline for personal returns is still April 15 with the option for an extension until October 15. As always if you have specific questions be sure to speak with your CPA.
Several weeks ago, as previously mentioned, we heard of an increase in instances where people have seen credit accounts opened or attempted to be opened in their names. Below are some ideas you may want to consider implementing to protect yourself and your family:
- Placing a freeze on your credit with all of the following credit reporting agencies. Freezing your credit is the only way to prevent those with your personal information from opening accounts in your name. Links to each agency are below:
– Equifax
– Transunion
– Experian
- Consider obtaining a credit monitoring service. Please note that credit monitoring does not prevent ID theft; it simply alerts you when events occur that may impact your credit.
- Be on high alert for impersonators or phishing attempts by fraudsters. Be on the lookout for emails or calls that appear to be from legit companies, telling you that you’ve been impacted, or otherwise by creating a sense of urgency, and telling you to “click here” for more information. When in doubt, do not click the link. Any legitimate company will have another way for you to contact them to be sure the email is safe.
As you know, we have discussions with you concerning not only investments, but tax mitigation, wealth transfer, wealth protection, and charitable giving. These discussions many times lead to the need for you to speak with other professionals including attorneys and insurance agents. I have spoken with many other professionals and they have found ways to complete any needed changes or updates you may have but have postponed due to the pandemic. Even with everything that is going on, between calls, video meetings, in-person meetings, and electronic signatures, much can be completed. If there is something we recently discussed and an update or change is important to complete, please consider contacting your other professional as they may be able to get the update or change completed without meeting face to face.
Recently we were asked if we are taking on new clients and the answer is yes. We are actively taking on new clients and are having conversations with people to help them sleep easier at night knowing they will be financially secure through various economic cycles. As we have said in the past, we are here as a resource to your family and friends. As you have heard described previously, as a service to you, we will take the time to speak with anyone you care about who may be in a complex situation or who just wants to make sure they are making smart decisions in today’s environment and world. We provide this service at no cost and no obligation. As always, we keep all our client’s information confidential, and our conversations with your introduction remain 100% confidential.
Please feel free to provide your friend or relative with our information as well as share this and other blog emails with them. By the way, all my previous emails and special reports can be found on our website (Chris’ Blog and Special Reports) that they may find useful. We are here to help.
Have a great weekend and I look forward to talking with you soon.
Chris
Chris Zeches, CFP®
Managing Partner