Even though the proposed tax rebates are not yet approved by Congress, and the deadline for federal income tax filings is two months away, scam artists are already using both these events to con consumers.

Regarding the tax rebates, the FBI warns that ID thieves are already calling consumers at home, saying they can get their rebate check sent out more quickly. Of course the caller, sometimes pretending to be from the Internal Revenue Service, says they first need personal information, like your Social Security number and bank account information. That should tip off the most consumers that the call is a scam, because under no circumstance will the government call and ask for that information. But the FBI believes the scam will seem credible because so many people are currently talking about the tax rebates. If you get such a call, you can file a complaint by calling 816-474-TIPS.

The second scam, involving income tax returns, has more variations, and the fraudsters go after either money or personal information (or both) from consumers. The Florida Attorney General’s office has issued an alert warning about tax preparation “experts” who aren’t really qualified to help you prepare an IRS tax return. To choose wisely, shop around first. Avoid a service that isn’t open year-round and which promises a larger refund than others. Ask who will represent you if your return is questioned or audited by the IRS, and if they will pay any audit-related fees. Only attorneys, certified public accountants and enrolled agents can represent taxpayers before the IRS in any matter including audits, collections and appeals. Don’t allow a tax preparer to convince you to take out a Refund Anticipation loan, as you will have to pay the fees (which can be 180 percent APR) even if your loan is not approved.

Consumers should also beware of emails that claim they can help process a refund you are due. Although the emails look official, they can be a ruse to obtain your private information from you. To check the status of a refund you’re expecting, visit the IRS website at www.IRS.gov and click on “Where’s My Refund”.

Other emails to watch out for are those from fraudulent charities which seek contributions from consumers needing tax deductions. There’s even an email which offers help getting your “social security tax refund,” which actually does not exist.

To file a complaint about tax-related scams and any other types of fraud, call the Florida Attorney General’s fraud hotline, 1-866-966-7226, or visit www.myfloridalegal.com