IRS, Tax Season, and Phone Scams

It's the Season for Criminals Posing as the IRS

With the new tax season starting this week, the IRS reminds taxpayers to be aware that criminals continue to make aggressive calls posing as IRS agents in hopes of stealing taxpayer money or personal information. Here are some telltale signs of a tax scam along with actions taxpayers can take if they receive a scam call.

The IRS will never

• Call to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method such as a prepaid debit card, gift card or wire transfer. Generally, the Internal Revenue Service will first mail a bill to any taxpayer who owes taxes.
• Threaten to immediately bring in local police or other law enforcement groups to have the taxpayer arrested for not paying.
• Demand that taxes be paid without giving taxpayers the opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed.
• Call unexpectedly about a tax refund.

Taxpayers who receive these phone calls should

• Record the number and then hang up the phone immediately.
• Report the call to TIGTA using their IRS Impersonation Scam Reporting form or by calling 800-366-4484.
• Report the number to phishing@irs.gov and be sure to put “IRS Phone Scam” in the subject line.

More information on Scam Prevention

• Tax Scams and Consumer Alerts
• Report Phishing and Online Scams

About the Author

Reed Tinsley CPA

This article is written by Reed Tinsley, a Houston, TX-based CPA with over 30 years of experience advising physicians and medical practices across Texas and the United States. Reed holds certifications as a Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA), Certified Healthcare Business Consultant (CHBC), and Certified Financial Planner (CFP), specializing exclusively in the healthcare sector. He is a published author, nationally recognized speaker, and trusted advisor to physicians on accounting & tax, practice management, and financial planning. Schedule a Free Consultation.