Tax Scams Every Taxpayer Needs to Know About

Tax season already demands enough of our attention, and the last thing anyone needs is a scam getting in the way of their refund. As we head into filing season, here’s a simple overview of the tax scams popping up most often, how to spot them quickly and what you can do to stay protected.

Common Tax Scams to Watch Out For

Phishing Emails & Texts: Messages pretending to be from the IRS often mention refunds, account issues or “verification.” These phishing tax refund scams link to fake websites designed to steal your information. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) does not reach out by email, text or social media to request personal details.
Viral Tax Advice on Social Media: Misleading posts promising “big refunds” or “secret credits” have become increasingly common. The IRS warns that social-media tax misinformation can push taxpayers into filing inaccurate or fraudulent returns.
IRS Scam Calls: Scammers may call pretending to be IRS agents, using threats or urgency to pressure you into immediate payment. The IRS never calls unexpectedly to demand money, especially not through unusual methods.
Ghost Tax Preparers: A ghost tax preparer refuses to sign your return, may inflate your refund or enter false information, leaving you responsible for the consequences. Always work with a preparer who signs with a valid preparer tax identification number (PTIN).

How to Protect Yourself

Choose a Reputable Tax Preparer

Avoid issues with ghost tax preparers by choosing someone who signs your return and is properly credentialed.

Avoid Clicking IRS Links

Go directly to IRS.gov when checking notices or refund information. Don’t trust links in messages. This helps you avoid phishing tax refund scams.

File Early

Filing early reduces the chance of someone attempting to file fraudulently using your information.

Turn on Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Enable MFA on tax software, your banking apps and email accounts for added protection.

Never Pay through Gift Cards, Wire Transfers or Cryptocurrency.

The IRS will never request these forms of payment.

Get an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)

An identity protection PIN helps prevent someone else from filing a tax return using your information. Sign in to your IRS online account and use the "Get an IP PIN" tool on IRS.gov, or visit an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center with a valid ID.

Set Up Direct Deposit for Your Refund

Since the IRS announced it will no longer issue paper refund checks, direct deposit is the fastest and safest way to receive your refund.

Tax scams can be unnerving and disruptive, but with a few simple habits you can keep your information safe and your filing on track. A little awareness goes a long way, and taking these steps now will help ensure your refund reaches you safely, and your personal information stays protected.

IRS Tax Scams Page

Tax Scam FAQs

The IRS will not initiate contact via email, text or social media. Verify any notices through your IRS online account.

Don’t panic but act quickly. Start by changing your passwords on any accounts that could be affected. Notify your bank and forward suspicious messages to phishing@irs.gov immediately so the IRS can investigate.

If someone calls demanding immediate payment, threatening legal action or insisting you stay on the line, hang up. Real IRS communication always begins with a mailed notice, not a surprise phone call with pressure tactics. After you hang up, report the call to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration or the Federal Trade Commission.

Before You File: Tax Scams Every Taxpayer Needs to Know About