Discovering And Recovering From Identify Theft

Published on: 02 April 2019 Last Updated on: 30 November 2021

Identify Theft is not a big problem if you have the right gadget with you. It is a real problem that affects millions of Americans every year. And, the number of victims keeps growing. According to Javelin Strategy And Research, over 16 million cases of identity theft were reported in 2017 resulting in over $16 billion in stolen money.

Different Ways You Can Identify Theft For Your Betterment

There are multiple ways you can identify theft for your betterment. Make things easier for yourself to enjoy the day. Work out the plans that can help you to achieve your goals.

Identity Theft Explained:

Stated by a credit repair company in San Antonio, when your personal and sometimes sensitive information is stolen from you and then used to open accounts in your name, you become a victim of identity theft. Stolen information includes your name, social security number, credit card numbers, bank account information, and other financial data.

Your information can be taken via discarded mail, email scams, attacks on financial institution databases, or through any other company that stores a list of sensitive consumer data, for that matter.

Thieves may start off with just a couple of pieces of information about you. They use this information to access further data that are key in opening accounts in your name and racking up debt.

The Impact Of Identity Theft On Your Credit Score:

Simply put, the longer identity theft continues the more it ravages your credit. If you have not put an identity theft monitoring mechanism in place, months may pass before you realized someone has been using your identity. You may not notice until the day you apply for a loan and are surprisingly turned down. Discover the victim before you identify theft.

Identity thieves have no interest in protecting your credit. They’ll use your identity as long as they can to spend money until your score is so negatively affected no more lines of credit can be opened in your name.

This means, depending on the condition of your credit when your identity was stolen, thousands upon thousands of dollars of debt can accrue before you ever realize your identity has been stolen. Then, your score will plummet from too much debt and have to start rebuilding your credit score.

Recovering From Identity Theft:

Once you discover you’ve been a victim of identity theft, you must contact all the financial institutions affected such as credit card companies, banks, and other lenders. Report the incident with them, and they’ll help you begin the process of filing your claim and freeze all fraudulent accounts. You need to identify the theft that can work well for you.

Next, you’ll need to have new cards issued for any existing accounts you had before identity theft took its toll on your credit. Next, put a freeze on all future lending with a fraud alert. Instituting fraud alert mechanisms will tell lenders to take extra precautions before granting a new line of credit in your name for the next 90 days.

Protecting Your Credit:

The best way to ensure you don’t become a victim of identity theft is to use a credit monitoring service. These services often come as a no-cost benefit offered by many existing lenders. Credit monitoring will alert you any time there is a change in your credit score. It will also let you take a peek at your credit any time you need to check in on it.

You can also protect yourself by using unique, strong passwords at each of the financial websites you have credit lines with. Never click on emails asking for personal information from you. Shred all financial documents, and never give out passwords on the phone.

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Delays In Tax Return Processing: Common Reasons And How To Resolve Them

Filing taxes is an annual obligation that individuals and businesses must fulfill. As tax season approaches, taxpayers eagerly anticipate their tax refunds, which can provide much-needed financial relief. However, delays in tax return processing can be frustrating and worrisome. This article aims to shed light on the common reasons behind tax return processing delays and provide practical solutions to resolve them. Understanding Tax Return Processing A tax return assessment includes assessing and computing income tax declarations submitted by individuals and businesses. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or relevant tax authorities review the information provided, verify the calculations, and determine the taxpayer's liability or refund amount. The processing time for tax returns varies depending on various factors, such as the complexity of the return, the accuracy of the information provided, and the volume of returns received by the tax authorities during peak season. Common Reasons for Delays in Tax Return Processing Incomplete or Incorrect Information One of the primary reasons for delays in tax return processing is the submission of incomplete or incorrect information. Mistakes in providing essential details, such as Social Security numbers, income figures, or deductions, can trigger a delay in the processing of the return. Missing Supporting Documents Taxpayers are required to attach supporting documents, such as W-2 forms, 1099s, and receipts, to validate their reported income and deductions. Failure to include these documents can lead to processing delays as tax authorities may request additional information. Filing Multiple Tax Returns Some taxpayers may unintentionally file multiple tax returns, especially if they have moved or changed their address. This duplication can confuse the tax authorities and result in delays. Complex Tax Situations Tax returns with complex financial situations, such as investment income, rental properties, or self-employment income, require meticulous examination. As a result, these returns often take longer to process. How to Resolve Delays in Tax Return Processing Double-Check Your Information To avoid delays caused by incomplete or incorrect information, carefully review your tax return before submitting it. Verify all personal details, income sources, deductions, and credits. Gather All Necessary Supporting Documents Before filing your taxes, ensure that you have all the required supporting documents. Organize your W-2s, 1099s, receipts, and other relevant records to provide a complete and accurate picture of your finances. Contact the IRS or Tax Authorities If you suspect a delay in your tax return processing, consider reaching out to the IRS or the relevant tax authorities. They can provide information on the status of your return and offer guidance on resolving any issues. Seek Professional Assistance In cases of complex tax situations or uncertainty, seeking help from a tax professional or accountant can be beneficial. These experts can navigate the complexities of tax laws, ensure accurate filings, and minimize processing delays. When it comes to finding the best assistance for your tax needs, companies such as Ideal Tax are a viable option. Checking the Status of Your Refund As a taxpayer, it’s always a relief to know when to expect your refund. Luckily, the IRS has made it easy to check the status of your tax refund through the “Where’s My Refund?” tool. This online tracker can be accessed simply through the IRS website or the IRS2Go app. To proceed, you will need to provide your Social Security Number or taxpayer identification number, along with information about your filing status and the exact refund amount that is listed on your tax return. Please note that these details are required. Whether you filed electronically or through the mail, this tool will update you on the progress of your refund. So, skip the stress and check on the status of your refund with this easy-to-use and essential tool. How Long Does it Take to Process a Tax Return? While there is no definite answer, there are some general guidelines to keep in mind. For electronic returns, the IRS typically processes them within 21 days. For those who choose to file their taxes on paper, the processing time may take a bit longer - usually around four weeks. However, these are just ballpark figures, and there may be extenuating circumstances that cause delays. In the end, it's always best to stay patient and keep tabs on your refund status through the IRS's online tracking tool. Avoiding Future Delays To prevent future delays in tax return processing, adopt the following practices: File your tax return early to avoid the peak season rush. Use reputable tax software or consult a tax professional for accuracy. Maintain well-organized financial records throughout the year. Keep track of tax law changes and updates that may impact your return. Conclusion Delays in tax return processing can be frustrating, but they are not uncommon. By understanding the common reasons behind these delays and taking proactive steps to resolve them, taxpayers can ensure a smoother and more efficient tax filing process. Remember to double-check all information, provide the necessary supporting documents, and seek professional help if needed. Read Also: Important Things You Need To Know Before Filing For Bankruptcy Raising Capital For Startups: How An LLC Structure Attracts Investors Glenn Sandler (CPA) of G.I. Tax Service: What to Do If You Can’t Pay Your Taxes

7 Important Things You Must Do Right After Your Retirement

Retirement can be a time of mixed emotions. Everyone certainly wants to enjoy their retirement with prosperity and happiness. According to professionals, 93% of formal workers worldwide have yet to learn about their retirement. Along with that, the health risk also increases as you age and decrease in physical condition. It is important to remember that happiness is not just a comfortable life after retirement but essential for mental and physical health. Thus, investing in your happiness can be the best thing you can do for yourself in retirement. One of the biggest challenges is finding a new meaning and purpose in your life. This article will help you discover some important things you can do after you retire. Things To Do Once You Reach Your Retirement Retirement is a perfect time to pursue your passion and allows you to explore new interests. Whether it is traveling to your favorite destination or assisting in some care centers, there are endless things that you can do after your retirement. Here is a list of things you must do after your retirement. 1. Maintain Your Physical And Mental Health Staying healthy and active is important for your mental and physical well-being right after your retirement. Doing yoga or exercise is one of the best ways you can stay healthy with your physical abilities. If you practice it regularly, it will assist you in regulating a well-maintained weight, improve your mental health, and minimize the risk of any chronic disease. You can make a schedule to exercise at least once a day or go for a walk in the nearby park or garden. Besides meditation or yoga, there are many fun and enjoyable ways to remain active in retirement. You can take a Zumba class, a swimming class, or a local sports team. There are endless options to keep yourself healthy and active in retirement. 2. Diversify Your Income Stream While you still actively work and make a monthly income, you can consider your spending habits. Thus, you can start with a frugal living so that you can save money and later use it as your retirement fund. Financial stress is a major source of worry and anxiety in retirement. However, it is important that you manage your finances strategically and plan for the future to remain stress-free. To ensure a comfortable retirement, you can also contact pension consultants to develop a retirement plan. This will help you meet your goals and meet your needs. Furthermore, you can further develop and start paying off your debt with the small things. 3. Start Investing In Your Hobby Think about your favorite hobby or activity that you like to do. Start doing it regularly. Therefore, this will help you maintain good health, specifically your mental health. Thus, you can enter your retirement phase and continue to do your hobby to remain active, relieve stress, and be productive. In addition, constantly practicing your favorite hobby will keep you away from heart disease, enhance mental well-being, and normalize high blood pressure. However, learning new things can assist you in staying mentally sharp and engaging with the people around you. 4. Clear All Your Debts Whether you have planned a retirement plan or not, remember to pay your debts before your retirement. This would help you fill retirement without any loans or debts. Hence, you can start paying off your debt from the smallest one. Thus, make sure you avoid getting tempted to add extra loans so that it does not become a burden in retirement. 5. Prepare A Source Of Fund Start preparing for your fund at your early employment stage. In order to maintain your lifestyle after your retirement, it is important that you plan while you are still working. Apart from your savings or recurring, you can start with other investments for your retirement and protect yourself from various life risks, such as stock markets, mutual funds, and other schemes that will help you build hefty retirement funds. All you would require is a well-prepared plan that will make sure you love a wealthy and happy retirement. Hence, in order to reach there, you need sufficient funds for your retirement. Remember to protect your retirement plan with insurance, which will help you secure your retirement life and protect you from various life risks. 6. Give Back The Community Helping in charity or volunteering in home care centers is a great way to give back to the community and create a positive surrounding around you. It can also teach a sense of purpose and meaning in your life in retirement. There are several ways to volunteer in retirement, from mentoring people in your community to helping in local food banks. While volunteering can be a great way to meet new people, it also assists in building a respectful relationship within the community. 7. Travel And Explore New Places Retirement is a perfect time to plan trips and explore places that have been on your bucket list for a very long time. Whether you are exploring a new country or simply exploring a park, travel can bring a sense of excitement and adventure to your life in retirement. On the other hand, travel can be a great way to learn new things and make new friends. Whether you are traveling with friends or family, there are endless options to explore the world and create new memories. Wrapping Up Thus, sticking to the program will be fine if you are determined to follow the plan. It is only possible to achieve this with active participation and a good advisor's support. Therefore, remember that retirement is a chance to look back with happiness on all the great achievements in your career. Similarly, you are being able to draw and enter an exciting new stage of your life. From drawing up your favorite hobby to diversifying your income streams, you can set up a plan that fits your needs and preferences. All you need is to remain stress-free. Yoga, meditation, and other relaxation techniques can help manage stress and improve overall well-being. Hence, start to plan the key decisions and let them play out in their own time. Read Also: Smart Ways to Invest in Gold How To Start Your Investor Journey: 5 Credible Options To Explore What Investors Should Know about Investment in Gold and Silver Assets

A Little on the Side…Or Not? Your Guide to Supplemental Insurance

Have you ever experienced something you didn't expect? It might have been something good, like bumping into an old friend on vacation or being taken to a surprise party. Or it could have been something not so favorable: a car accident, the loss of a job, a sudden illness… The world is an unpredictable place. Each new day brings its own surprises - both good and bad. We can't plan for those surprises, but we can protect ourselves. In 2017, Americans spent $1.2 trillion on health insurance premiums. Having a good health insurance plan can protect you in the event of an unforeseen injury or illness. But it's not always enough. Some people go to make a claim only to find that it isn't covered. Others can afford to make their monthly premiums, but when they need medical assistance, they can't afford to pay their copays. Even with health insurance, medical bills are the leading cause of bankruptcy in the US. Supplemental insurance may help cover those costs so you don't need to add a financial emergency along to your medical emergency. What Is Supplemental Insurance? As the name might suggest, supplemental insurance is a type of insurance that supplements your existing healthcare coverage. There is a wide variety of health insurance plans, but most plans give you a choice between a low monthly premium and a high deductible or a high monthly payment with a low deductible. Most people choose to go with a low monthly premium-especially if they're generally in good health. But since 61% of Americans don't have enough savings to cover a $1,000 emergency, that high deductible could ruin them. Supplemental insurance is a separate health insurance policy that can be used to cover additional expenses that you may be unable to cover on your own. You might use it to pay for a deductible, copays, or care that your regular insurance does not cover. Some supplemental insurance companies will even cover lost wages for time off due to illness. Supplemental insurance carries its own monthly premium. However, this premium is often lower than the difference between your current insurance plan and a plan that would cover everything else you need. Types of Supplemental Insurance: Just like every health insurance plan is different, there are several different kinds of supplemental insurance. You can mix and match these plans as needed. Dental Insurance: It's likely that you already have supplemental insurance without realizing it. Most health insurance plans do not cover dental work. And since regular visits to the dentist are an important way to fight dental problems, that could leave you on the hook for expensive out of pocket costs. To cover your dental care costs, you must have a supplemental plan. This supplemental is often provided in your benefits package from your employer without you even realizing it. If you manage your own insurance, your primary insurance provider may offer a separate plan to cover these. Vision Insurance: Like dental insurance, vision care is not typically covered by most health insurance policies. And that's bad news considering that 75% of Americans need some kind of vision correction. While you could always see an optician at the cheap eye clinic in the strip mall, that's a poor substitute for regular appointments with an optometrist or ophthalmologist. An optician can also miss other serious problems that an optometrist or ophthalmologist would catch. Supplementing your medical insurance with vision insurance can keep your vision care expenses from running through the roof. Medigap: Medicare is a state-run insurance program that covers citizens over 65 or certain individuals with disabilities. It is funded through taxes, so recipients do not pay a monthly premium. Many people depend on Medicare to cover the cost of their ongoing healthcare. But it doesn't cover everything. Medigap plans can help cover out-of-pocket expenses or necessary care that is not covered by Medicare. Travel Insurance: If you're traveling away from home and you are injured or become ill, you may not be able to find any healthcare providers within your network. Purchasing supplemental travel insurance before you travel is a good way you can stay covered if the worst should happen. Critical Illness Insurance: While insurance exists to cover unforeseen costs that you cannot afford, every insurance plan has an annual limit or a cap on how much they will cover. If you reach that cap, you must pay for any costs beyond that. If you become seriously ill, it can be easy to reach the cap in a hurry. Supplemental critical illness insurance is used to cover expenses beyond your insurance policy's annual limit. Do I Need It? You might be reading this thinking, "this is all well and good, but do I actually need supplemental insurance?" Can you afford to pay your entire deductible? Can you pay for out-of-pocket expenses like copays and prescriptions? Can you afford to pay for additional care out of pocket? Are you at risk of reaching your policy's annual limit? If you answered "yes" to most of those questions, then you might not need supplemental insurance. If you have a savings account that you can dip into to cover extra costs, you can skip it and pay less per month. However, if you do not have a lot saved up, paying a few dollars more per month for supplemental insurance could save you if you suffer a health crisis. Take a look at your financial situation, your current health insurance, and your overall health and make an informed decision. Protect Yourself: Supplemental insurance is a great way to protect yourself from uncovered medical expenses. But as the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. You can help prevent runaway medical costs by taking care of your health. For more articles about how you can stay healthy, visit the health & fitness section of our blog! Read Also: How To Get Low-Cost Life Insurance For Seniors Small Business Guide To Private Health Insurance Exchanges

Discovering And Recovering From Identify Theft

Different Ways You Can Identify Theft For Your Betterment

Identity Theft Explained:

The Impact Of Identity Theft On Your Credit Score:

Recovering From Identity Theft:

Protecting Your Credit:

How Financial Trading can give you the Life you want

What You Need to Know Before Buying Property with a Tax Lien

Content Rally

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

Leave a Reply

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Delays In Tax Return Processing: Common Reasons And How To Resolve Them

7 Important Things You Must Do Right After Your Retirement

A Little on the Side…Or Not? Your Guide to Supplemental Insurance

Discovering And Recovering From Identify Theft

Different Ways You Can Identify Theft For Your Betterment

Identity Theft Explained:

The Impact Of Identity Theft On Your Credit Score:

Recovering From Identity Theft:

Protecting Your Credit:

Share this Article

How Financial Trading can give you the Life you want

What You Need to Know Before Buying Property with a Tax Lien

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

Leave a Reply

Popular

Follow Us

Recent

Related