As we move further into tax season, it's crucial to stay vigilant about IRS tax scams. Scammers are increasingly sophisticated, using fear and urgency to trick taxpayers into revealing personal information or sending money.
Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself:
Common IRS Tax Scam Tactics:
- Phone Scams: Callers claim to be IRS officials, demanding immediate payment or personal information.
- Phishing Emails: Emails that appear to be from the IRS or related to taxes, aiming to steal personal information.
- Fake Tax Bills: Notices about a bill for a year you didn’t file, often demanding payment via gift cards or wire transfer.
How to Protect Yourself:
Know the IRS will never:
- Call to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method.
- Threaten to immediately bring in local police or other law-enforcement groups.
- Demand taxes without giving you the opportunity to question or appeal the amount they say you owe.
Verify Contact: If you're unsure whether an IRS communication is legitimate, don't reply. Instead, contact the IRS directly.
Use Secure Channels: Always use secure methods to send personal information and payments. The IRS doesn’t ask for personal or financial details via email, phone, or text.
Helpful Resources:
Spread the Word:
Share this information with friends and family. The more people are aware, the less successful these scammers will be.