Tax scam targets Tri-City residents, businesses

The Washington Department of Revenue is warning Tri-City businesses and residents that a phony tax collector is targeting them.

The agency said it has received five complaints about a caller who demands immediate payment of back taxes and penalties, accompanied by threatening remarks. The caller ID displayed is that of the department’s Richland office, although it did not place the calls.

The state said those receiving similar calls should hang up and call the revenue department directly.

Revenue officials do contact businesses by phone, typically to remind them of a missed tax return. They do not demand immediate payments by methods such as a prepaid debit card.

Individuals who receive threatening calls should report them to the federal Internal Revenue Service, 800-829-1040.

This story was originally published June 6, 2016 at 7:21 PM with the headline "Tax scam targets Tri-City residents, businesses."