How to Protect Yourself from Tax Scams This Filing Season

Jeffrey Ventura
Mar 6
3 min read

Tax season often brings stress, but it also opens the door for scammers who want to steal your money or personal information. Each year, the IRS warns taxpayers about new and evolving tax scams that can cause serious financial harm. Understanding these scams and knowing how to protect yourself can save you from headaches and losses.

Close-up view of a tax form with a pen on a desk — Tax form and pen on desk, symbolizing tax filing and potential scams

Common Tax Scams to Watch For

Scammers use many tactics to trick taxpayers. Some of the most common scams this filing season include:

Phishing emails and calls: Fraudsters impersonate the IRS or tax professionals, demanding immediate payment or threatening arrest. They often ask for personal details like Social Security numbers or bank accounts.
Fake tax preparers: Some tax preparers promise large refunds but file false returns using stolen information. This can lead to audits or penalties for the victim.
Identity theft: Criminals use stolen personal data to file fraudulent tax returns and claim refunds in your name.
Impersonation of IRS agents: Scammers call pretending to be IRS agents, claiming you owe back taxes and must pay immediately via unusual methods like gift cards or wire transfers.

The IRS never initiates contact by phone, email, or text to demand immediate payment without first sending a bill by mail. Knowing this can help you spot fake communications.

How to Spot a Tax Scam

Recognizing the signs of a scam is the first step to protecting yourself. Look out for:

Urgent or threatening language: Scammers pressure you to act quickly to avoid arrest or penalties.
Requests for unusual payment methods: The IRS does not accept payment by gift cards, prepaid debit cards, or wire transfers.
Unsolicited emails or texts asking for personal info: The IRS does not request sensitive information through these channels.
Errors or inconsistencies in documents: Fake notices often contain spelling mistakes or incorrect details.

If you receive suspicious communication, do not respond or provide any information. Instead, verify by contacting the IRS directly using official contact details.

Steps to Protect Yourself This Tax Season

Taking proactive steps can reduce your risk of falling victim to tax scams:

File early: Filing your tax return as soon as you have your documents reduces the chance someone else files a fraudulent return in your name.
Use a trusted tax preparer: Check credentials and reviews before hiring a professional. Avoid preparers who promise unusually large refunds or charge fees based on your refund size.
Secure your personal information: Keep your Social Security number, tax documents, and financial information safe. Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication for online accounts.
Monitor your tax account: The IRS offers an online tool to check your tax account for suspicious activity or unfiled returns.
Report scams: If you suspect a scam, report it to the IRS and the Federal Trade Commission. This helps authorities track and stop scammers.

What to Do If You Become a Victim

If you discover that someone has filed a fraudulent return using your information, act quickly:

File a report with the IRS: Use IRS Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit, to alert the IRS.
Contact the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit: They can guide you through the recovery process.
Place a fraud alert on your credit reports: Contact the major credit bureaus to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name.
Review your financial accounts: Look for unauthorized transactions and notify your bank or credit card company immediately.