Tax season can already be a stressful time, let alone considering the types of tax scams and fraud that are out there! When filing your taxes this year, you should be aware of the many potential opportunities for scammers and fraudsters to take advantage of you and steal your money.
The IRS wants people to know scammers will mislead you about tax refunds, credits, and payments. They may also pressure you for personal, financial, employment information, or money.
Here are a few warning signs you should be aware of:
- A big payday: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Bad tax advice on social media may convince you to lie on tax forms or mislead you about credits you can claim.
- Demands or threats: Impersonators want you to pay “now or else.” They don’t let you question or appeal the amount of tax you owe.
- Website links: Odd or misspelled web links can take you to harmful sites instead of IRS.gov.
If you believe you have been scammed, there are things you can do:
- Protect your finances: STOP interacting with the scammer. Don’t send them any money or personal information and contact your financial institution.
- Protect your tax information: You can get an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) to make sure scammers can’t file a tax return in your name.
- Take action on specific scams or fraud: Make sure a notice is really from the IRS.
- Stay Alert: Don't get scammed again.
Don’t forget, taxes are due by April 15. To ensure a smooth process, make sure you follow these steps, so scammers or fraudsters don’t take advantage of you.
Visit the IRS website on how to recognize tax scams and fraud for more information.