Tax season often brings added stress for families helping elderly loved ones manage their finances. Unfortunately, it’s also a time when scams and exploitation targeting seniors rise sharply. Understanding how financial abuse happens—and how to spot it—can help protect vulnerable adults from serious harm.
Concerned about possible financial abuse? Contact Joel R. Bryant through our online contact form or call (619) 597-2577 to discuss available legal options.
Why Tax Season Puts Seniors at Greater Risk
Every year, tax season opens the door to scams designed to trick older adults out of their savings or sensitive information. Fraudsters know that many seniors rely on others—family members, caregivers, or tax preparers—to handle their finances. This dependency can make them prime targets for manipulation.
Even well-meaning relatives or advisors may take advantage of the situation, using access to financial records or a power of attorney to misuse funds. Being alert to warning signs can prevent irreversible losses.
Common Financial Scams Targeting Seniors During Tax Season
Understanding the types of scams that appear most frequently can make it easier to recognize suspicious activity.
Some of the most common forms of financial abuse include:
- IRS Impersonation Scams: Callers pretend to be from the IRS, threatening arrest or penalties if immediate payment isn’t made.
- Tax Preparer Fraud: Dishonest tax preparers overcharge, falsify returns, or redirect refunds.
- Identity Theft: Personal data from tax forms is stolen to file false returns or open new accounts.
- Family Member Misuse: Relatives exploit trust by gaining access to bank accounts or manipulating tax-related paperwork.
- Investment or Charity Scams: Fraudsters claim to offer tax-deductible investments or donations that don’t exist.
When reviewing these situations, look for unusual withdrawals, missing paperwork, or changes in financial behavior that seem out of character.
How Family Members and Caregivers Can Help Prevent Financial Abuse
Staying proactive is one of the best ways to protect loved ones from being taken advantage of during tax season.
Consider the following protective measures:
- Review bank and credit card statements monthly.
- Encourage seniors to sign checks themselves whenever possible.
- Avoid sharing personal information or Social Security numbers over the phone or email.
- Choose tax preparers with clear credentials and transparent billing.
- Set up alerts for large transactions or changes to account details.
A few consistent safety steps can make a significant difference in reducing the risk of financial exploitation. Communication, trust, and oversight all play vital roles.
Legal Options When Financial Abuse Is Suspected
If financial abuse is suspected, it’s essential to act promptly. Reporting to Adult Protective Services (APS) or local law enforcement can initiate an investigation. In some cases, legal action may also be necessary to recover stolen assets or prevent further harm.
An experienced San Diego elder abuse attorney can assess whether financial exploitation occurred, gather documentation, and advise on potential remedies through the civil or probate courts.
Recognizing the Emotional Impact of Financial Abuse
Financial abuse doesn’t only affect bank accounts—it can cause deep emotional pain. Many seniors experience feelings of betrayal, shame, or anxiety once they realize they’ve been targeted. Offering emotional support and reassurance can help restore confidence and encourage openness about financial matters.
Families should strive to maintain a nonjudgmental dialogue so seniors feel comfortable reporting suspicious activity before it escalates.
Protecting Loved Ones with Help from a San Diego Elder Abuse Attorney
Tax season shouldn’t be a time of fear or confusion. If warning signs of financial abuse are present, guidance from a San Diego elder abuse attorney can make a critical difference.
Joel R. Bryant helps families take steps to safeguard their loved ones’ financial security and pursue justice when exploitation occurs. Contact Joel R. Bryant through our online contact form or call (619) 597-2577 to learn more about available options for protecting seniors from financial harm.