Paula received a voicemail from an IRS employee asking for a call back on a toll-free number. She is current on her tax filing requirements and doesn’t owe any back taxes. So, she’s confused about why the IRS would contact her.
Paula is justified in being concerned. The IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers by phone, email, text messages, or social media channels. Official IRS correspondence is sent through the US Postal Service. The letter provides detailed information regarding tax issues such as notices about discrepancies, bills for unpaid taxes, or requests for additional information.
Sometimes, the IRS may call taxpayers, but this is not common and usually follows an initial letter. During these calls, representatives never demand immediate payment or ask for credit card information over the phone.
Paula should call the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040, not on the number left in the voicemail.
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