How can I confirm if a letter I received from the IRS is real?

You can verify any notice by logging directly into your personal account on the official IRS website or by calling the main IRS customer service line directly. Never use the phone numbers or web addresses printed on a suspicious notice.

What is an IRS IP PIN, and should I get one?

An Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a unique six-digit number assigned by the IRS to prevent fraudsters from filing a fake tax return using your Social Security number. Any taxpayer can easily request one online by logging into their account at IRS.gov/getanippin. Once enrolled, you (or your tax preparer) must enter this PIN every year to file your return.

What should I do if I think someone already filed a fake tax return in my name?

Respond immediately to any IRS notice, complete IRS Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit), and continue to pay your taxes and file your return even if you have to submit a paper return for that tax year.

How to Avoid IRS Tax Scams: Stay Informed, Stay Secure

Don't Let Tax Fraud

Catch You Off Guard

We Make Sure

You're Informed

Woman sitting at a desk in her brightly lit home office reading emails.

Every tax season brings new reminders to stay vigilant. While scam tactics evolve—from sophisticated phone calls and text phishing to misleading social media claims—the ultimate goal of fraudsters remains the same: to trick you into sharing personal information, bank details, or money.

Recognizing the warning signs of tax scams is one of the best ways to protect your financial security and peace of mind. Knowing what the IRS will and won't do helps you spot red flags immediately and take confident action.

1. Recognize How the IRS Actually Communicates

The single most effective defense against tax fraud is understanding standard IRS communication methods. Scammers rely on panic, urgency, and fear to force quick decisions. The IRS, by contrast, follows structured, predictable processes.

First Contact Is Almost Always by Mail: The IRS initiates initial contact regarding taxes owed or questions about a return through official letters sent by the U.S. Postal Service—never through text messages, direct social media messages, or email.

No Immediate Payment Demands: The IRS will never demand immediate payment using specific methods like gift cards, prepaid debit cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.

No Sudden Threats of Arrest or Law Enforcement: The IRS does not threaten taxpayers with immediate arrest, police action, driver's license revocation, or deportation over the phone.

Your Right to Appeal or Question: Official procedures always allow you the opportunity to question or appeal any amount the IRS claims you owe.

2. Common Tax Scams to Watch For

Understanding the most frequent scam tactics helps you spot suspicious activity before responding.

Phone Impersonation and Robocalls

Scammers use caller-ID spoofing technology to make calls appear as though they originate from the IRS or local law enforcement. Callers often claim an urgent audit or lawsuit requires immediate payment. If you receive an unexpected call claiming to be from the IRS demanding money, hang up immediately.

Text Phishing and Email Schemes

Unsolicited text messages or emails promising unexpected tax refunds, rebate transfers, or urgent account updates are almost always fraudulent. These messages typically include links leading to fake websites designed to harvest your Social Security number or login credentials.

"Ghost" Tax Preparers

A "ghost" preparer is an unethical individual who charges a fee to prepare your return but refuses to sign it or include their Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). Ghost preparers often promise artificially large refunds, charge fees based on a percentage of the refund, or alter numbers without your knowledge. Always ensure your tax preparer signs your return and takes professional responsibility for their work.

Misleading Social Media "Tax Hacks"

Viral videos and social media posts frequently promote illegitimate deductions, false credits, or claims that filing certain forms guarantees large cash payouts. Relying on unverified advice can result in delayed returns, severe penalties, or liability for fraudulent claims.

3. What to Do If You Suspect a Scam

If you encounter a suspicious communication or believe you may have been targeted by a tax scam, take these protective steps:

Do Not Click Links or Reply: Never click links in unsolicited emails or text messages claiming to be from the IRS or state tax agencies.

Verify Directly: If you owe taxes or suspect a legitimate issue with your account, contact the IRS directly through official phone numbers listed on IRS.gov or consult your trusted tax professional.

Report the Incident: Forward IRS-related phishing emails to phishing@irs.gov or report phone scams to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA).

4. Work with a Trusted Partner

Navigating tax obligations and tax filing with confidence starts with reliable, personal guidance. Partnering with a dedicated local tax professional ensures your return is filed accurately, securely, and in full compliance with current laws.

Call Carolina Business Services at 828-287-9595 or drop-in during business hours at 662 E. Main St, Spindale, NC. An appointment is never needed! And our secure document portal is always open for our clients.

Frequently Asked Questions: Tax Scams & Fraud

How can I confirm if a letter I received from the IRS is real?
You can verify any notice by logging directly into your personal account on the official IRS website or by calling the main IRS customer service line directly.
Never use the phone numbers or web addresses printed on a suspicious notice.
What is an IRS IP PIN, and should I get one?
An Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a unique six-digit number assigned by the IRS to prevent fraudsters from filing a fake tax return using your Social Security number.
Any taxpayer can easily request one online by logging into their account at IRS.gov/getanippin.
Once enrolled, you (or your tax preparer) must enter this PIN every year to file your return.
What should I do if I think someone already filed a fake tax return in my name?
Respond immediately to any IRS notice, complete IRS Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit), and continue to pay your taxes and file your return even if you have to submit a paper return for that tax year.

Additional Resources

To stay informed about emerging tax schemes and official safety guidelines, consult these trusted sources:

IRS Tax Scams and Consumer Alerts: The official IRS repository tracking active consumer alerts, trending phone schemes, and safety tips.

Identity Protection: Prevention, Detection, and Victim Assistance: Official guidance on safeguarding your tax identity and steps to take if your information is compromised.

Report Phishing and Online Scams: Direct reporting instructions for suspicious emails, text messages, and phone impersonation attempts.

Explore Related Tax Tips & Resources

Continue exploring practical ways to simplify your filing season on our Taxing Time Blog. You’ll find helpful ways for a smooth tax preparation year—filing with accuracy and confidence knowing your taxes are done right the first time!