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The Socket Connection

March 2011

E-Filing Your Taxes
Tips and warnings for online taxpayers

With the April deadline approaching quickly, many Missourians are thinking about filing taxes. Taxpayers can be at ease, however, because the Internal Revenue Service offers a convenient e-filing option.

According to the IRS, filing income taxes online results in faster refunds, greater accuracy and quicker confirmation, giving taxpayers assurance during a usually stressful time. Other benefits include secure and confidential submission, a “file now, pay later” option, 24/7 access, and the ability to confidentially save tax information for next year. Because of these benefits, the popularity of e-filing is increasing dramatically.

The IRS also considers e-filing to be the most secure method of handling sensitive tax information because of secure online submission. The lack of paper trails associated with e-filing prevents tax forms from getting lost in the mail and therefore inhibits the increased risk of identity theft, ultimately ensuring the safety of last-minute filing.

Despite its acclaimed safety, many Missourians may still have apprehensions when filing taxes online. For maximum security, follow a few safety measures:

Submit tax information only on secure websites. The Internet identifies secure websites with specific addresses and symbols. Make sure tax preparation Web addresses begin with "https://" to indicate a secure site. In addition, secure sites are identified with either a closed padlock or unbroken key icon at the bottom of your Web browser.

Select a reputable provider. Well-known companies such as H&R Block, TaxACT and TurboTax all have credible options for filing online. For a more extensive list of e-file providers authorized and supported by the IRS, visit www.irs.gov. Nearly all e-file providers charge a small fee.

Use secure passwords. Choose a password with at least eight characters and a combination of both letters and numbers. Don't use commonly known information (such as a birth date, anniversary date or pet's name).

Remember to log out of tax preparation software. This is especially important if you are using a public or shared computer.

Tax preparation providers now offer different packages to better meet the needs of individuals, families and businesses. However, for some taxpayers there are a few situations where e-filing is not the best option. If in doubt, be sure to consult a tax professional in your area.

 
 


In This Issue:
Dear Techie: Is paying bills online safe and if so, how do I do it?
Learn how to safely and conveniently pay bills online.

Socket at Spring Events
Find Socket at these local events.

Socketeer Spotlight: Chris Green
Meet Socket's You-Make-the-Difference-Award winner for February.

Sites of the Month
Three websites to check out in March.

Contact Information, Comments and Suggestions
Let us know how we're doing!


(c) 2011 Socket. All rights reserved.

Dear Techie: Is paying bills online safe and if so, how do I do it?

Paying your bills online can be simple, safe and convenient. You can pay bills directly through your bank, or separately through each of your service providers.

Many banks offer online bill paying services, which allow you to pay all your bills in a matter of minutes. Money is directly transferred from your account to the service providers you set up accounts for, such as your electric company. If you are unsure whether this service is available to you, or how to use it, contact your financial institution.

You can also pay bills online through your service providers' websites. This method requires you to give each provider authorization to deduct money from your bank account each time you request. For those that allow you to pay online, you will need to provide a voided check or your bank account or credit card information. This should be done either in person or through a secure website. Never provide bank account information via e-mail.

In order to keep your financial information private and secure, remember to verify website security before submitting your personal information. Always ensure the address bar begins with "https" before entering financial information, since this signifies a secure website. A closed padlock or unbroken key icon in the bottom of the Web browser is another good indication the website is secure. Finally, monitor your bank statements closely to watch for any fraudulent or mistaken charges.

Sam Phuon, Technical Support
support@socket.net

Have a question for Dear Techie? Send it to editor@socket.net.

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Socket at Spring Events

Socket is making the rounds at home and garden shows and other Missouri events.

In February, we visited the Polar Plunge on February 19, which raised more than $62,000 for Special Olympics athletes!

We also visited with residents at the Jefferson City Home Show.

Here's where you can find us throughout the next few weeks:

Mid-Missouri Home and Lifestyle Expo: Feb. 25-27, Hearnes Center Fieldhouse, Columbia, MO
Sedalia Home & Lifestyle Show: Mar. 12-13, Mathewson Exhibition Center
Kirksville Spring Expo: Mar. 26, NEMO Fairgrounds

Hope to see you there!

To learn more about Socket's community involvement and to view more pictures of Socketeers in action, visit www.socket.net/community.

Socketeers (from left) David, Josh, Dave, Wayne, Chelsea and Scott braved the icy waters to benefit Special Olympics Missouri at the Polar Plunge.

Socketeer Dustin (left) and Socket spokesperson Bill (right) at last year's Sedalia Home & Lifestyle Show.

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Socketeer Spotlight: Chris Green, Customer Service Supervisor

Chris Green was chosen as Socket's You-Make-the-Difference-Award winner for February. Chris joined Socket in October 2009 as a customer service agent. Earlier this year, he was promoted to customer service supervisor.

"Chris has stepped up and provided the leadership the department needed," said a co-worker who nominated Chris for the award. "He is the customer's advocate and supports his employees."

Chris is originally from Flat River, MO, but has lived in Columbia, MO for almost two years. In his spare time, he enjoys volunteering, watching TV or playing with his pet guinea pigs.

"It was really unexpected to win this award," said Chris. "I am very appreciative of my staff for helping me make such a difference. It's an honor to work with such good people."

Socket's You-Make-the-Difference Award is given monthly to the employee who best exemplifies Socket's Core Values and Beliefs. Recipients of the award are nominated and voted on by their peers. To view other winners, visit www.socket.net/ymtd.

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Sites of the Month

Three great Web sites to check out in March:

  • Missouri Gas Prices (www.missourigasprices.com)
    With gas prices on the rise, find the cheapest gas in your area with a quick search before you head to the pump.
  • Do-it-Yourself or Not? (www.diyornot.com)
    Estimate the cost of a do-it-yourself project, then compare to the price a professional would likely charge to determine the better option.
  • Med Help (www.medhelp.org)
    Enter prescription and over-the-counter medications to see if there are any harmful interactions with other drugs, food or drink.

Do you have a great Web site to share with others? Send it to editor@socket.net.

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Contact Information, Comments and Suggestions

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Disclaimer: This publication provides general information about the subject matter covered. Before acting on any information contained in this publication, please consult with one of Socket's technical or customer service representatives at 1-800-SOCKET-3 to determine its applicability to your particular situation.

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