Wright County officials advise residents of recent scam scenarios related to U-S passports.
Wright County Taxpayer Services is an official passport acceptance facility. But recently, officials in that department say they have seen a noticeable jump in individuals unknowingly using unauthorized third-party vendors to complete their passport applications.
County officials say these companies are not authorized agents and cannot process passport applications. In many cases, applicants complete forms online and pay a fee, only to later be instructed to visit an official acceptance facility to finish the process. Unfortunately, any money already paid to these third-party vendors is solely for their services and does not go toward official passport processing fees.
To avoid this issue, applicants should only use the official U.S. Department of State website: www.travel.state.gov for all passport-related information. Be cautious of other websites or companies that claim they can process or renew passports online, as these may be misleading or even fraudulent. Travelers are advised to always verify that the website ends in “.gov,” and not “.com,” “.us,” or “.org.” For those eligible to renew their passport online, the process must be completed through the official government website.
Passport application forms are free and can be accessed online or obtained in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility. Taxpayer Services processes passport applications from 8 AM to 4 PM Monday through Friday. Appointments are preferred, walk-ins are accepted as time allows.
Applicants are encouraged to review all passport and document requirements prior to visiting the government center.
Anyone with passport questions may call (763) 684-8617, or visit the Wright County website.
