Tax Refund Fraud
March 5, 2025
Tax season is filled with new tax scams and fraud schemes every year. Scammers are relentless in their pursuit of the hard-earned tax returns of citizens across the country, constantly thinking of ways to impersonate the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and mislead others. Protect yourself this tax season by reading below on how the IRS may contact you and the things they will never do.
How the IRS May Contact You
- U.S. Mail – Verify the letter is legitimate at https://www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-irs-notice-or-letter
- Email – The IRS will only email you with your permission, with a few exceptions such as criminal investigations.
- Text – They will only text you with your permission.
- Phone Call – They may call to discuss your case, verify information, or set up a meeting.
- Fax – They may fax to verify or request employment information.
- In Person – It is rare for the IRS to visit in person, and they will typically send a letter before visiting.
What the IRS Will Never Do
- Contact you or ask for payment on social media.
- Accept gift cards or prepaid debit cards as payment.
- Threaten to contact law enforcement or immigration officials.
- Take your citizenship status, driver's license, or business license.
- Leave pre-recorded voicemails.
- Mail advertisements about tax debt resolution.