How To Deal With CRA Scam Phone Calls
Over the past month or so we have had many clients calling and asking about CRA phone calls. These phone calls are imposters of the CRA (Canada Revenue Agency), trying to scam you. But don’t worry! We are going to give you the run down on what to expect when the CRA calls so that you can be prepared for this situation. The most important thing to know is that Bruce and his team are always available to take your call and answer any questions you may have directly.
CRA Phone Calls Will:
give you their name and badge number
have a patient and professional tone
CRA Phone Calls Will Not:
ask for your credit card or prepaid credit card information
use aggressive tones or language
How To Identify If The Call Is Not From CRA & What Do You Do?
When you get a call from the Canada Revenue Agency, they will always identify themselves by name and badge number. If the caller does not tell you this information off the bat, ask them for it. At this point, most callers will hang up the phone.
In the case that a person refuses to give this information and tries to continue the conversation, hang up the phone.
The caller will tell you that you owe money to the CRA. Most likely, the caller will attempt to threaten you to pay by way of credit card or prepaid credit card. They may also try to get your banking information for a direct payment.
First, find out how much money you owe. Then, tell them you must check with your accountant or CRAgency and try not to engage further with the person on the other line. The best course of action when in doubt is always to hang up the phone.
Call the CRA for personal taxes at 1-800-959-8281.
Or, call Bruce L Anderson for assistance at 250-592-8612.
Contact Bruce L Anderson
We are never too busy to take the time for a phone call. If you are uncomfortable or have questions about a sitation like the CRA calling for anything else, do not hesitate to get in contact with us.