We know that the above email couldn’t be real for a few reasons: Consumerist doesn’t have our own payroll department, and Olivia is a cat. Yet there’s a new variation of the now-classic CEO scam, where someone impersonates your boss over email and requests a massive wire transfer. In this version, the boss impersonator does exactly what Fake Meg does above: they request a file of employee W-2 forms enabling them to commit identity theft, including filing fraudulent tax returns. [More]
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My W-2 Arrives Ripped Open, Only Tax Cat And I Care
By 1.28.13
Ultimately, we’re all responsible for our own fates. That’s what David learned when an important tax document arrived in his mailbox with his Social Security number and name exposed. It didn’t come in a “sorry we damaged your mail” envelope like most mangled letters do, so he was suspicious. Maybe someone had ripped it open to get his info. Maybe a postal employee had mangled it, but forgot to put it in an apologetic envelope. Whatever had happened, surely the postal service, credit bureaus, and police would have answers for him, right? Right. [More]
What To Do When An Employer Goofs Up Your Tax Form
By 1.27.11
Although it’s tempting to duck and cover to protect yourself from the onslaught of tax forms filling up your mailbox these days, it’s a good idea to examine the numbers on your W2s and 1099s to ensure they’re accurate. If an employer or bank screws up and reports it gave you more money than it really did and you don’t notice, you’re on the hook for the extra taxes. [More]
Help! My W-2 Is Late And I Want Justice!
By 2.1.10
Tax Cat here. Reader Jason wants to know what to do when your lazy former employer doesn’t send your W-2 on time. [More]
What To Do If You're Missing Your W2
By 2.1.08
It’s February 1st and you don’t have your W2? Fear not. Tax Cat will help.
Hunt Down Your Missing W-2s and 1099s
By 2.21.07
The deadline for mailing W-2s and 1099s was Jan. 31, so if you don’t have yours yet…they’re probably lost in the mail. Don’t panic, Blueprint for Financial Prosperity has some tips to help track them down.
