Focus on Jobs, Unemployment on the Decline

“Now Hiring” signs from nearly 70 employers were a welcome site by more than 1,000 attendees of my Job & Community Resources Fair last month held at the Coliseum in St. Petersburg. This event was a huge success and I have since received messages from attendees who have shared their success stories with me. “Now Hiring” signs are popping up throughout the Tampa Bay community as the economic recovery continues and unemployment decreases. The national unemployment rate fell to 7.7 percent in February, adding 236,000 jobs to payrolls.
           

Fighting Against Tax Fraud in Tampa Bay

As we continue to help our neighbors looking for job opportunities, we also continue our fight against tax fraud. Two years ago, law enforcement uncovered a massive tax fraud scheme right here in Tampa Bay. We since have partnered to tackle the issue and prevent this type of fraud from reaching more of our neighbors. In addition, we have provided additional tools to local law enforcement, and expedited resolutions for victims.

As a result of our advocacy to push for these changes, from 2011 to 2012, identity theft and tax fraud investigations have increased by 70 percent and prosecutions have increased by 67 percent. In addition, 223 people were sentenced in 2012 versus 80 in 2011.

But more needs to be done to protect our neighbors throughout Tampa Bay. That’s why together with Rep. Rich Nugent (Florida – District 11), the first bill I filed this Congress was the Tax Crime and Identity Theft Prevention Act to provide additional taxpayer safeguards and increase penalties against thieves.

Filing earlier rather than later is one of the best ways to prevent the type of identity theft connected with tax fraud. Usually, identity thieves use a legitimate taxpayer’s identity to fraudulently file a tax return and claim a refund. You may be unaware that this has happened until you file for your return later in the filing season and discover that two returns have been filed using the same Social Security number.

Please read through additional important identity theft prevention tips provided by the IRS.

Assistance with Federal Agencies

My office is always available to provide you with assistance if you have a concern regarding federal services, including the IRS, Social Security, passports, immigration, veterans’ affairs, Medicare, military cases and HUD. Please feel free to contact a constituent services representative in my District office at 813-871-2817. Spanish-speaking staff is available. I hope to see you next month during my mobile office hours event in Progress Village. 

           
Sincerely,

Kathy Castor

P.S. Remember to join me on Facebook for more pictures and information about issues important to our community.