South Texas Veterans Health Care System (STVHCS)

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Veterans: Beware of the following scam -

Veterans and families - we want to make you aware of a scam we've heard of which targets Vets. Please see the text below:

The VFW has been made aware of scam emails that appear to come from a DFAS employee and displays a .mil address, but it is actually from a non‐government email account.

The email indicates that individuals receiving VA disability compensation can receive additional funds from the IRS. It states that such funds can be obtained by sending copies of your VA award letter, your income tax returns, your 1099‐Rs, your RAS statements, and a copy of your DD 214, to a so‐called retired Colonel at an address in Florida. Do not follow the suggestions in the email because you will be providing a significant amount of your personal information to a complete stranger, which could result in a financial loss to you. Please share this information with your fellow Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines, military retirees and families so they are aware of this scam.

The 1099‐Rs that are issued by DFAS reflect only the taxable portion of a member’s retired pay. DFAS is not aware of any legal basis for the alleged additional funds that the IRS would supposedly pay over. By ignoring the email, you will avoid frustration, the release of personal information to a stranger, and the possibility of financial loss. If you have any questions or concerns about these or any other tax issues, you should contact a known, reputable tax consultant, tax attorney, or legal assistance officer for advice and assistance.

Below is the text of the scam email:
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sent: Thu, March 17, 2011 7:04:17 PM
Subject: FW: Income Tax
Sandra,
here you go!
I been informed that you can receive additional funds from IRS for SM who retired with 20 years of AFS, information required to receive this entitlement is as follows:
Copy of your VA award letter (note: if your VA rating has been increase within the last three years, you'll need to send all
ratings).
Copies of your 1040's for tax years: 08, 09 and 10
Any copy of your 1009R for year 08, 09 and 10
Copies of your RAS statements (Retired pay statements) for year 08, 09 and 10
Copy of your DD Form 214
This information should be mailed by Priority Mail to:
>
Willie Brooks
726 Mayflower Ave.
Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32547‐3175
850‐862‐1673.
Mr. Brooks, is a retired AF COL who worked for IRS and charges you 10% of what you receive. I have known of several within the AW2 program who has received from $8.000.00 to $19,000.00. For
additional information concerning this matter below is the link to verify this information.
http://cfr.vlex.com/vid/122‐relating‐reduced‐uniformed‐pay‐19700943
You can pass this on to any of your friends who has a VA rating and 20 or more years of AFS

Please pass the above information to those you know and let's help stop this scam in its tracks!

Are you a Veteran looking for legal advice?

If so, call Texas RioGrande Legal Aid to see if you qualify for the Legal Aid Clinic held monthly at ALMD.

(210) 212-3740 or (210) 212-3718

Click here for full details. 

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