(MOBILE, Ala.) - The Alabama Department of Revenue is giving residents a new way to get tax refunds this year, with a credit card. The idea is cut down on fraud.
In 2012, nearly one third of Alabama taxpayers opted to receive their return checks in the mail. This year Alabamians may opt to receive returns on Chase debit card. The card is free of charge and can be used any where Visa is accepted. State officials hope it will eliminate check fraud.
"People that have a check mailed to their house, a lot of times there are people that watch," said Internal Revenue Enrolled Agent Wesley Mott.
Mott stated debit cards are safe, convenient, and protect taxpayers who do not have a bank account.
"When someone is charging you this huge amount of money so that you can get your money earlier, you don't need to do that," said Mott.
There are some concerns when opting for debit cards. Mott stated activating the card is relatively easy. Some taxpayers believe debit cards can be stolen just as easily as checks; however, state officials state there are enough security measures in place to protect users money. In order to retrieve one's tax returns, taxpayers must provide their name, social security number, and the status they filed.
The Department of Revenue officials hope to get rid of checks within the next few years to save money on postage.
