Protect Yourself from Tax Scams

Don’t fall for these scams…

• Social Security number: Scammers threaten to suspend Social Security numbers because of overdue taxes.
• Fake tax agency: A letter threatens an IRS lien or levy because of fake delinquent taxes.
• Phone: Scammers leave messages threatening law enforcement involvement, deportation, or revocation of licenses.
• Phishing: Personal information is requested through email by phony government agencies.

Look for these signs of scams…

• A call demanding immediate payment.
• Request for payment by prepaid debit card, gift card, or wire transfer.
• Threats to contact law enforcement.
• Demand for payment without the opportunity to question or appeal.
• Messages posted to social media or texted to you.
• Emails and texts from a tax professional requesting more information.

Report any suspected scams…

• gov/tigta: File a report with Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration.
• phishing@irs.gov: Email the IRS with IRS Phone Scam in the subject of the email.
• ftc.gov/complaint: Use the complaint forms the Federal Trade Commission provides.
• 800.829.1040: Call the IRS.

Remember, the IRS will mail a bill to people who owe taxes. The IRS does not contact people by phone, email, or text to request payment.