Tax scams are increasingly sophisticated schemes where criminals impersonate IRS agents or other government officials to steal money or personal information. Understanding common scams and warning signs can help protect you from fraud.

Common IRS Scams to Watch For

'Unclaimed Refund' Scam Fraudsters send official-looking letters claiming you're entitled to a refund, requesting personal information like driver's licenses and Social Security numbers. Legitimate IRS communications won't ask for this information via email or mail.

Employee Retention Credit (ERC) Scam Scammers target businesses by promoting fraudulent claims for pandemic-era tax credits, often charging large fees for "assistance" with applications that don't qualify.

Fake W-2 Scam Criminals encourage filing false information to get larger refunds. The IRS receives W-2 copies directly from employers and can easily detect fraudulent submissions.

Charity Scam Fake charities pressure for quick payments via gift cards or wire transfers. Always verify tax-exempt status through the IRS TEOS tool before donating.

Identity Theft Scam Scammers pose as IRS agents claiming identity theft, often requesting gift card payments to "resolve" the issue.

How to Identify IRS Scams

The real IRS:

• Initially contacts taxpayers by mail, not phone or email
• Never demands immediate payment
• Doesn't ask for credit card numbers over the phone
• Won't require specific payment methods like gift cards
• Allows you to question or appeal amounts owed
• Won't threaten to bring in law enforcement

What to Do If Targeted

If you suspect a scam:

1. Don't provide personal or financial information
2. Report to the Treasury Inspector General (TIGTA) at 1-800-366-4484
3. Forward suspicious emails to [email protected]
4. File a complaint with the FTC
5. Contact your state attorney general for state tax impersonators

To verify legitimate IRS debt, check your account at IRS.gov/payments. For payment plans or tax relief programs, work directly with the IRS rather than third-party services.

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