Tax Filing Deadline Looms, Don't Get Caught In Email, Phone Scams

SOUTHFIELD (WWJ) - Tax Day is this Wednesday, and Robin Viau, officer manager of the H&R Block in Northland Mall, has a message for those that have yet to file a return.

"I would tell them to go ahead and gather up their documents now - bring them into our office - let's get the tax return prepared - if they think that they may be missing documents but they are not for sure come on in we'll get you set up - let you know what you may need," said Viau.

So, what if you don't file in time?

"If you do not file by the 15th -- you could possibly be penalized, if you owe the government," she added.

Despite the Northland Mall closing last week --Viau emphasizes her office is open through Tax Day.

And a word of warning from State Senator John Proos of St. Joseph about the importance of watching out for tax-time scams.

"To anybody who says they are acting as the IRS or the State of Michigan Department of Treasury, these email scams and scams over the telephone often catch the most vulnerable folks in our society," said Proos.

He says to not give out personal information over the phone.

The attorney general says the IRS would never contact you by phone, demanding money.