Advance Child Tax Credit: Portal Update, Scams, & IRS Backlog
The Bottom Line:
Not too late to un-enroll
Update ACTC portal ASAP
Beware ACTC Scams!
IRS: Backlogged.
Hot Vax Summer = Hot TAX Summer, amiright?!!
After eyerolling our #dorkjokes, eyescroll down for time-sensitive info on Advance Child Tax Credit (ACTC) updates, ACTC Scams, & why the IRS is ghosting you.
Advance Child Tax Credit Portal: Go there
Please head asap to the IRS’ Child Tax Credit Update Portal & to our website for quick links. Changes made by Aug 2 will apply to the Aug 13 payment. Things to check:
Firstly: Update that info! Double-check your direct deposit details are current and shipshape.
2ndly: It's not too late to UN-ENROLL but skedaddle, friend.
3rdly: Track Tracky Track. Track those payments! You'll need to know and communicate to your accountant via receipts/ deposit statements/ etc what advances you have received (or haven't) come taxtime.
4thly: (is 4thly a thing.) This credit is new, this portal is new, and updates are ongoing! Keep checking back to update physical/mailing address, income, family changes, etc..
ACTC scams are major right now – protect yourself
Beware: Scammers are phishing via phone, text, email, & social media under the guise of registering/updating your info for ACTC payments.
Find IRS warning video here (text version here). And since you already went to the ^^portal (*cough*) - you know your info is registered and up to date!
The IRS will never ask for sensitive info via text, email, or social, and will never leave pre-recorded, urgent, or threatening messages via phone.
The IRS – she’s late.
If the IRS has now stood you up for so long that the waitstaff is starting to pour you Pity Wine, you are not alone! Well…I mean you ARE…but does it feel better to know that others are too? (That never feels better.)
We don't have official numbers but the IRS is backlogged. Like – WAY backlogged. Like – starting your thesis the morning it’s due backlogged. Like – filling out your taxes April 14th @ 11:59pm at the post office with a borrowed sharpie backlogged.
If you haven’t heard from them yet, especially if you have unusual circumstances or filed a physical return—don't panic.
So – update that ACTC Portal! Hang up on those creepers threatening jailtime if you don’t disclose your SSN, bloodtype, and ex’s mother's middle name! Kick back with some frosé and wait for that IRS backlog to clear! And you’re sure to have a Good Day;)