Don’t fall victim to scams during this tax filing season. Recognize these red flags.
The IRS doesn’t initiate contact with taxpayers or request personal or financial information through phone, email, text message or social media. You’ll usually receive several letters from the IRS before an agent calls you or comes to your home or business.
Also, the IRS doesn’t call to demand immediate payment using a specific method, like gift cards or wire transfers. Any tax payments should be made directly to the United States Treasury. IRS personnel will never threaten to send local police or immigration officers to arrest you if you don’t pay.
If you’re ever in doubt about the legitimacy of messages or letters you receive, contact your tax professional right away, or call the IRS.