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The Maui News
The state Department of Taxation is cautioning residents about recent tax-related scams that aim to trick people out of money or steal personal information through text messages, mailed letters, social media or emails.
Hawaii taxpayers have reported receiving messages and letters asking them to click a link or call a phone number, the department said Thursday. The message might be an intimidating letter about "distraint warrants," using messages such as "seizure or forfeiture may be imminent due to non-payment of taxes," or letting the taxpayer know they can claim money.
These are not official letters, emails or texts from the Taxation Department, which does not issue "distraint warrants," send text messages, post social media messages about taxes owed or send unsolicited emails, the department said.
Residents should not reply to any correspondence from the "Hawaii Department of Revenue" or "Tax Assessment Securities."
"They have no association with government in Hawaii -- it is a scam," a department news release said. "Do not click on the link, open an attachment, or call the phone number; they are just trying to capture your personal information, solicit business, or take your money."
For questions or to confirm the legitimacy of any tax notice, contact the department directly using information listed at tax.hawaii.gov/contact/.