The California attorney general issued a warning on Monday about scammers targeting those still waiting for their middle-class tax refund payments.
One-time payments, also billed as inflation relief, range from $200 to $1,050 depending on your income, filing status, and number of dependents. They are distributed by direct deposit or by debit card.
“Unfortunately, some bad actors are hoping to take advantage as Californians patiently wait for their direct deposit or prepaid debit card to arrive,” Attorney General Rob Bonta said in a statement. “Don’t be fooled. Know what to expect and when, and take precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones from scams.
Bonta’s office claims that scammers use a variety of tactics to steal your personal information and, ultimately, your money. Among them, promising to speed up the delivery of payment.
“The first middle class refunds were made by direct deposit on October 7, 2022; debit card payments began October 24, 2022. Payments are expected to continue through January 14, 2023. Anyone who claims they can get you your money faster is a scammer,” the attorney general’s office said.
Relief payments are distributed by the California Franchise Tax Board (FTB). About half had been issued on Monday.
“You don’t need to take any action or pay to receive the refund,” the AG’s office said. “The FTB already has the information to make a direct deposit to your checking account or send you a prepaid debit card.”
To see if you are eligible to receive an inflation relief payment, tap here.
“The FTB will not contact you by text, email or phone. Do not share personal information with anyone who contacts you this way, even if they claim to be in government.
Californians receiving debit card payment should know what the envelopes look like:
The envelope reads: “Not an invoice or advertisement. Important information about your middle class tax refund. »
Envelopes that don’t contain this information are likely a scam, the AG’s office said.