Tax Season – Tax Scams
As tax season gets underway, members should be aware that scams involving IRS impersonators more than double this time of year.
Here are just a few of the ways scammers are attempting to trick you out of your money:
Unclaimed Refund Scams
Taxpayers should be on the lookout for a new mailing scam. The mailing comes in a cardboard envelope containing a letter on IRS letterhead. The letter asks you to provide ‘Filing Information’ for a ‘refund’, all in an attempt to trick you into sharing very detailed personal information.
IRS Impersonation Calls
Be aware of callers who are posing as IRS agents, using fake names and bogus IRS identification badge numbers in hopes of stealing taxpayer money or personal information. They usually know a lot about you, and they often alter the caller ID to make it look like the IRS is calling. Victims are told they owe money to the IRS, and it must be paid promptly through a gift card or wire transfer.
We urge all members to take caution before paying unexpected tax bills.
The IRS will not:
- Call to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method.
- Threaten to bring in local police or other law-enforcement groups to have you arrested.
- Demand payment without giving you the opportunity to appeal.
- Ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone.
Taxpayers can call 800.366.4484 to report impersonation scams.