Scam Alert: Beware of ERTC Firms Bearing Gifts
April 05, 2023, Utah Nonprofits Association Newsroom. The National Council of Nonprofits recently shared information on tax scams identified by the Internal Revenue Service that are targeting nonprofit organizations. The IRS released its annual Dirty Dozen list representing, as they put it, “the worst of the worst tax scams.” Among this year’s scams is aggressive marketing schemes to con ineligible nonprofits to claim ERTC benefits.
“While the credit has provided a financial lifeline to millions” of employers, said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel, “there are promoters misleading people and businesses into thinking they can claim these credits.” The IRS is increasing scrutiny on what it calls “aggressive promoters making offers too good to be true.” The IRS cites “blatant attempts” and “schemes from promoters who have been blasting ads on radio and the internet touting refunds involving Employee Retention Credits, also known as ERCs. These promotions can be based on inaccurate information related to eligibility for and computation of the credit.” Read the IRS News Release.
It has come to UNA’s attention that a company called Synergi has been contacting members and claiming a relationship with UNA in order to promote their Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) services. Please note that UNA does not partner with or maintain any relationship with Synergi and in no way endorses their services or business practices.
The businesses that UNA partners with are clearly listed on our website and have a relationship with us through Business Membership, Sponsorship, or program-related partnerships. UNA never shares members’ contact information with outside entities. If you have been contacted by this company, let us know so we can monitor this information.
Nonprofits, often overloaded and under-resourced, may seem like easy targets for scammers. Remember to stay vigilant, do your own due diligence, and contact UNA with any questions or concerns.
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For more information or to report an issue, visit the Utah Department of Commerce, Division of Consumer Protection.
