This time of year, our thoughts turn to spring and the fun of filing our taxes. Ok, so filing taxes is not fun. Unfortunately, some criminals prey on the stress and anxiety of tax season with IRS and tax related scams. These phone scams have a few variations, but there are some basic things you can do to help protect yourself this tax season and all year long.
Here are five red flags that will alert you to the scam. Any one of these should tell you the call is not from the IRS:
● Receiving a call for immediate payment – the IRS will always send a postal letter first
● Demanding immediate payment – the IRS will always provide an opportunity to question or appeal the amount they claim you owe
● Requiring a specific method of payment – the IRS will not require a prepaid gift card or wire transfer
● Demanding credit or debit card numbers – the IRS will not ask for this information over the phone
● Threatening to bring in local law enforcement – the IRS will not order your arrest if payment isn’t made immediately
If you receive this call, or any other call demanding payment, you should resist the urge to act immediately. The scammers often try to confuse and intimidate, making you send payment without really thinking things through. Hang up, and call the IRS official number (1-800-829-1040) to verify any debt. If you do owe, the IRS will discuss your payment options.
If you have questions on a call, please call the IRS or local law enforcement immediately.
