MD Controller Warns Of Fake Tax Notices Threatening Property Seizure

ANNAPOLIS, MD — The Maryland Comptroller’s Office warned taxpayers it did not send out notices threatening to seize property over unpaid debts.

The office posted a release Thursday noting it had learned of fraudulent seizure notices that were sent to Maryland residents. "The Comptroller’s Office has not sent these notices, which are often inaccurate and use fraudulent language, text, or logos suggesting that they are affiliated with a state agency," the news release said.

Scammers use these types of tax fraud schemes to attempt to trick taxpayers into sharing their personal or financial information and to take their money, comptroller officials said. Tax schemes are more common during tax season, so taxpayers should remain vigilant against suspicious solicitations related to taxpayer information, social security numbers, tax liens and debts.

Anyone who receives a seizure notice and believes they may have an outstanding debt should call the Office of the Comptroller at 1-888-674-0016 to verify whether any debts is owed.

Generally, the Office of the Comptroller will first mail a bill on official letterhead to any taxpayer who owes taxes. The two outside collection agencies used by the comptroller are IC System, Inc. and Penn Credit — information for both companies is listed on the comptroller's website.

Like the Internal Revenue Service, the Office of the Comptroller will never:

• Call to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method, such as a prepaid debit card, gift card, or wire transfer.
• Threaten to immediately bring in local police or other law-enforcement groups to have the taxpayer arrested for not paying.
• Demand that taxes be paid without giving the taxpayer the opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed.
• Ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone.

For more information about tax scams, check the IRS website.