Avoiding Scammers Who Claim They Are IRS Agents

With a growing number of fraudsters and scammers looking for victims, it is important for individuals to be able to distinguish legitimate IRS staff from imposters. All taxpayers should understand basic ways to protect themselves from fraudulent text messages, emails, phone contacts or in-person visits.

1. Text Messages — The IRS does not send text messages to individuals with shortened links. Scammers will frequently send text messages that include a bogus link. If you receive an unexpected text, you should NOT click on links or open attachments.
2. Send a Screenshot — If you do receive a suspicious text message, you should send a screenshot of it as an attachment to phishing@irs.gov. For individuals with an iPhone, you can take a screenshot by clicking both the Volume Up and the Power button of your phone at the same time. The screenshot will appear as a thumbnail in the lower left corner of the screen. Click on the screenshot to edit, select Done at the top left and save it to your photos. You may then select the photo of the screenshot, click the lower left button to allow you to choose your email service and send an email to phishing@irs.gov with the screenshot.
3. Email Scams — The IRS does not ask for personal or financial information with an initial contact by email. The standard IRS contact will be through several letters by regular mail. Any suspicious emails should also be forwarded to phishing@irs.gov. For additional instructions, visit the "Report phishing and online scams" page on IRS.gov.
4. Individuals Who Owe Tax — If you owe tax to the IRS, you can expect to receive several letters prior to a phone call. The IRS may follow up the letters with a phone call if you have an overdue tax bill, a delinquent tax return or have failed to make an unemployment tax deposit. The IRS emphasizes it will not demand immediate payment by specific payment methods like debit cards or gift cards or ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone. They will also not threaten you with arrest by the local police or demand tax payments without giving you an opportunity to appeal the claim. These strategies all indicate you are talking with a scammer.
5. IRS Agent In-Person Visits — Generally, IRS officers only make visits after you have received several notices by mail. The IRS Revenue Agent may make a visit for the purpose of education, investigation and appropriate enforcement steps. IRS auditors may also mail an initial appointment letter and generally will call and confirm the date prior to a scheduled audit appointment. If you have an in-person visit with an IRS representative, you should always ask for his or her credentials and HSPD-12 card, a government identification card that will display the agent’s photograph.
6. Resolving Tax Issues — On IRS.gov, there are several helpful sections that may assist taxpayers in creating payment plans. You can pay taxes through an Online Account with IRS Direct Pay or by using your debit or credit card. There are individuals who may qualify for a payment plan or an Offer in Compromise. The IRS again emphasizes it will not demand immediate payment, will not ask for credit or debit card numbers, will not threaten to have you arrested by local police and will always offer an opportunity to appeal. You may also be eligible to have an IRS Appeals Officer review your case prior to any further action.

Editor's Note: The fraudsters and scammers continue to become more sophisticated. Many of them build a relationship with the victim through multiple emails or phone calls prior to committing fraud. Individuals should be careful and request further verification if they have multiple contacts with someone who claims to be from the IRS.